Victim or witness to crime

If you are a victim or witness to crime, you are probably experiencing a lot of different emotions. Deciding what to do can be frightening and confusing.  Although this may be a difficult time, there are people who can help you.

When you come forward to report a crime, it can give you an opportunity to deal with the harm done to you or others. You may also be taking the first step to helping prevent further crimes and to protecting others from experiencing the same thing.

Resources available to help you report a crime

Whether you choose to speak directly with the police or use an alternate method of reporting a crime, it is important for you to come forward.

Here is some information about how to come forward and help and support available to you:

Speak to someone in confidence

If you are unsure if you should report the crime or would like to speak with someone first, you can discuss your options confidentially with a victim service worker by calling VictimLinkBC.

A victim service worker is unable to keep the report confidential:

• In situations where a young person (under 19) needs protection (for more information and to receive help for making a report, please call the Helpline for Children)
• If the crime is about to be committed

Report a crime

For information and to help you decide which way of reporting a crime is best for you, see How to report a crime.

Report a crime through someone else

For victims of sexual offences who are 19 or older, having someone else (a third party) report the crime may be less stressful. See Third party reporting for victims of sexual offences to learn more.

For more information

For more information about coming forward, reporting a crime, and support available to you as a victim or witness, see:

• Coming forward (Victim)
• Coming forward (Witness)