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Why report a crime

Last updated on March 25, 2026

You can play an important part in helping to keep yourself, your loved ones and community safe by reporting crimes committed against you or someone else.

You may help the police solve crimes and help prevent future crimes by sharing information about:

  • A crime that has been committed
  • A crime that may be committed
  • Someone involved in committing a crime

On this page

Importance of reporting a crime

There are good reasons for reporting a crime:

  • You or someone else may need protection from the person who committed the crime
  • It can help to protect you, your loved ones and community from future crimes
  • It can give you an opportunity to deal with the harm done to you or others
  • When police are called as soon as possible, there is a better chance of arresting the person responsible
  • Your report may stop someone from committing another crime

Resources, including this website, are available for information about how to report a crime and to help you decide if you want to report the crime.

Youth and child safety

You have a legal obligation to report situations where a child or young person (under 19) needs protection because they, for example, are being abused, neglected or sexually exploited. You must report the matter to the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

For more information or for help with making a report about a child or youth who needs protection, call the Helpline for Children.

Speak with a victim service worker

If you would prefer to speak with someone other than police, you can receive information, support and referral from a victim service worker by calling VictimLinkBC.

Victim services are available to anyone who has been a victim of crime in British Columbia. It is not necessary for you to report the crime to police to access some of these valuable services. For more information, see Victim services.