Online crime reporting numbers up

The word is starting to catch on that residents can file crime reports online. Josie Hemsworth, Office Manager for the Prince Albert Police Service said that the number of residents using the handy online feature to report non-emergency crimes has almost doubled since the option was introduced almost two years ago.

"I'm happy to see that residents are using this feature, which saves them time and hassle and helps our dispatchers to focus on emergency calls and not being tied down by calls that aren't as urgent."

When Online Report A Crime was introduced in 2016, 311 residents utilized the service.

478 residents used the service in 2017 ­– an increase of 54 per cent.

"It's working and hopefully as the word continues to get out more and more residents will turn to this to report non-emergency crimes," said Hemsworth.

To use the Online Report A Crime the crime must fit under the following criteria:

• It is not an emergency, does not involve personal violence and there are no known suspects.
• You will need a valid email address to use this system. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose.

You can Report a Crime Online under the following categories:

- Identity Theft or Fraudulent Scams
- Lost Property Under $5,000
- Mischief/Willful Damage/Graffiti to Property
- Mischief/Willful Damage/Graffiti to Vehicle
- Supplemental Report: This type of report can be used to add or amend information to a previously filed report.
- Theft from Vehicle under $5,000
- Theft of Property under $5,000

Some helpful information when using the Online Report a Crime:

• Reports must be filed by the actual complainant or victim of the crime and make sure to turn off any pop-up blocking software before filing the report. 
• Please ensure you have all required information at hand before you start. The report will time out if there is more than 30 minutes of inactivity.

All cases filed will be reviewed by an officer the same as when they are called in.

To file a police report visit www.papolice.ca.