Why Doesn’t Every Victim Report?

• Victims may be reluctant to report crime because they are:
  • afraid that violence will get worse;
  • afraid to discuss what happened;
  • afraid of the police response;
  • lacking personal support;
  • unsure where to get services;
  • insecure about their ethnicity or language; or
  • afraid seeking help might jeopardize their immigration status.

Why Should Victims Report?

• It is very important for victims of violence to report crime in order to:
  • stop the cycle of violence;
  • prevent others from being victimized;
  • allow proper police response by making them aware of violent crimes; and
  • make our community safer.

What Happens When Victims Talk To The Police?

• Call-taker takes basic information from victim (such as name, address, date of birth and best form of contact).
• A report is completed and forwarded to appropriate crime unit.
• If suspects are identified, police respond accordingly. Response varies from criminal charges to mediation (depending on offence and who is involved).

Can Victims Trust The Police?

• Your complaint will be taken seriously.
• Police officers and civilian call-takers are professionals.
• They receive specialized training in order to help victims and to treat them with respect and dignity.

Are There Other Options?

• Crime Stoppers allows victims of crime to report anonymously (this can be done by phone or online).
• You can still receive support from victims’ service organizations if you have not reported the crime to the police.

Crime Stoppers Ottawa
Tel: 613.233.TIPS (8477)
Toll-Free:1.800.222.8477
www.crimestoppers.ca