By Bevan Hamilton [1]
BELLEVILLE – Reporting minor crimes is now a lot easier for many Ontarians thanks to a new online system implemented by OPP.
The service, called Citizen Self Reporting, means that officers no longer need to go to the scene for every minor incident.
The online reporting form can be accessed from any computer or mobile device; the URL is opp.ca/reporting [2]. The report is immediately sent directly to the OPP.
You may use the tool for crimes like missing property, theft or damage, as long as the total value is under $5,000. Other examples are driving complaints and stolen licence plates.
The OPP doesn’t want major crimes – such as anything involving injuries, suspects or weapons, or any theft or damage exceeding $5,000 – reported online. A full list of what it is acceptable can be found here [3].
Simply put, if it’s not an emergency, the OPP wants the public to report it online. If it is an emergency, call for service as usual.
However, use of the new system is optional and police will still respond to a call for service if that’s what it is wanted.