6 Common Myths About Reporting Crimes Debunked
There is a lot of misinformation about crime and the justice system, which can impact the way that the general public reports crime. It’s important to address these myths to help the justice system work best for everyone. Here are some common myths that you might have heard about reporting crimes.
Myth 1: Reporting a crime could impact my future
Reality: Reporting a crime will not impact your ability to apply for jobs, housing or credit cards. As long as you tell the truth to the best of your ability, you are doing society a favour and will not be punished for speaking out.
Myth 2: It’s not worth reporting “small” crimes
Reality: If you experience a crime but don’t feel that the consequences are severe, you may be tempted to avoid the hassle of reporting. However, reporting crime can help prevent it happening to anyone else. Having a full picture of the crimes within the local community allows the police to spot patterns and prevent criminals from escalating their activities.
Myth 3: Prank calling the police is a harmless joke
Reality: It is illegal to prank call the police. Not only could you face serious punishment, but you are wasting time that could be used to help victims of real crimes. Emergency services are vital to the safety of our community, and your joke could lead to serious harm for someone in actual danger.
Myth 4: People who report crimes will definitely have to appear in court
Reality: Very few cases ever make it to court – many are settled earlier in the justice process. If your case makes it to court, attendance is voluntary unless you are sent a witness summons. Witnesses are given preparation time, making the process less intimidating should you have to appear in court.
Myth 5: You should only report if you have evidence to hand over
Reality: While you should definitely give any evidence that you have to the police, finding evidence is part of law enforcement’s job. Even if you do not personally have evidence, you should report crime to let the police know to look for evidence. Any information at all that you can give is helpful in preventing crime and finding justice.
Myth 6: You need to share your identity to report a crime
Reality: Not every method of reporting crime requires personal information. If you report a crime to Crime Stoppers, all identifying information is removed and no tracking data is collected. When your report is sent to the appropriate area of law enforcement, they are even unaware that the information came from Crime Stoppers.
Anonymously report crime
If you have information about a crime but do not want to share your identity, you can use the Crime Stoppers Bermuda online form or phone line. Our team passes crime reports to law enforcement without any information about you at all, allowing you complete privacy.
Use our online form or call 800-8477 to report a crime.
