How to Report a Crime

Last updated on December 12, 2017

You can report a crime in person, over the telephone and, in some communities, over the Internet (online).  Depending on the urgency, choose the method that best suits your situation and makes you feel most comfortable. In case of emergency, please call 911 immediately. If your community does not have 911 services, the emergency number for your local police can be found on the inside front cover of your phone book under emergency numbers.

In-Person

You can report a crime in person by talking to any police officer you see or by going to the nearest police station. Police non-emergency numbers may also be found on the inside front page of your phone book.

Over the Telephone

You can report a crime by calling the police or asking someone you trust to call the police for you.  To learn more, visit: How to Report a Crime Over the Telephone.

Over the Internet (Online)

You can report certain types of minor crimes committed in B.C. using the Internet (online). Visit How to Report a Crime Over the Internet to learn more.

Anonymously

If you are a victim or witness to crime or have information about a crime but are uncomfortable identifying yourself, there are ways you can confidentially share what you know without anyone knowing who you are. Visit How to Report a Crime Anonymously to learn more.

Victim of Crime

If you are a victim of crime, you can first contact VictimLinkBC to speak with a victim service worker. They can provide you with support and help you decide whether you would like to report a crime to police.

If you are a victim of a sexual offence, you may be able to have another person report the crime for you. Visit Third Party Reporting for Victims of Sexual Offences for more information.

Criminal Justice Glossary

Check our alphabetical list of criminal justice terms along with their definitions.