Reporting a Crime Questions

Can someone else report the crime for me?
A: The police prefer you to report the crime to them directly as only you will know the full details of the offence, but they will be sympathetic to other people making the initial report of the crime for you, particularly where you feel you are unable to because of the distress which it has caused you. This can be done through a family member or trusted friend or other third party e.g. an organisation dealing with victims of sexual violence or hate related crime.

What should I tell the police?
A: Wherever possible you should tell the police -
- As much information as you can about the offence;
- If you are worried about your own (or your family's) safety so that they can give you appropriate advice;
- If you think the offence was aggravated by sectarian or racial abuse or hatred directed towards you;
- How the crime has affected you; if you have suffered a personal injury or have suffered damage to your property.

And later:
- If you change your address or telephone number so that the police or prosecution can keep you informed. The police need to stay in touch with you to let you know what is happening with the progress of your case, the outcome of the investigation, including whether the case will be going to court. You may be required to attend the court to give evidence;
- Any other changes, for example, you may have noticed further losses or damage since you first reported the offence, or you may be suffering further effects from an injury caused by the crime. You may be able to apply for compensation from the Compensation Agency;
- If you have more information about the crime; or
- If you have been the victim of crime again.

What will the police do after I have reported the crime?
A: This usually depends on the types of crime and the effect it has had on you. Generally speaking, the police will make a judgement based on the information you provide, as to what investigation will be carried out. A police investigation will involve the police speaking to you about the offence; this may take place where the crime has occurred, at your home or work, or at hospital. The investigating officer will discuss and agree a suitable venue with you.

Normally a uniformed officer will attend any crime initially, but if the crime is serious or sensitive then a detective will be appointed to contact you and will take over the investigation. The police also have specially trained officers to deal with sexual crime, hate related incidents and domestic violence and usually you can speak to an officer of the same sex if you wish.

The police will normally write to a victim of crime and provide important information such as the investigating officer's name, station and your crime reference number. In addition they will provide you with a leaflet called 'Information for Victims of Crime'. This leaflet explains what happens after you report a crime to the police. Depending on the circumstances this information may be passed personally to a victim. However, if you are a family member of someone who has died as a result of a crime, a police Family Liaison Officer will be appointed to your case. You will also receive an information pack called 'Information for Families of Homicide Victims' in such a case.

How does Victim Support become involved?
A: Once you have reported a crime the police will normally write to you to advise that, unless you have any objections, they will pass your contact details to Victim Support, who will make contact with you to see if they can help you.

If you wish to speak to someone from Victim Support before the police contact you, you can contact them directly, at any time, by telephoning the National Supportline 0845 30 30 9000 or by contacting your local Victim Support office.

Can I ask for my details not to be referred to Victim Support?
A: If you do not want your name passed on by the police to Victim Support, then you should respond to the letter, which the police will send to you, once you have reported the crime. Alternatively, you should tell the police officer who is dealing with your case.

What other support groups are there?
A: The contacts list, located at the main menu, provides details of a range of organisations in Northern Ireland who provide support for victims of crime.