How to Report a House Being Used as a Drug Lab

Neighborhoods often unwittingly host drug labs, located within otherwise low-crime areas. If you suspect a house in your neighborhood is being used as a drug lab, follow these steps to alert the authorities.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Telephone

Instructions

Document and Report a Drug Lab

1. Keep a journal of any activity in or around the suspicious house. Record license plate numbers, physical descriptions, times of activity and anything you find unusual.

2. Take your findings to the local sheriff or police station. Demand anonymity before revealing anything.

3. Tell the FBI. The Federal Bureau of Investigation accepts tips on its Web site (see Resources below).

4. Consider speaking with local news media. You can make anonymous tips to news media, and their coverage will likely result in greater law enforcement attention.

5. Submit anonymous tips to WeTip (see Resources below). Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, WeTip accepts tips online and over the phone at 1-800-78-CRIME.

Take Extra Measures

1. Ask law enforcement officials about the next step. See if there is any additional assistance you can provide, and find out how to track the development of your information.

2. Install locks or security systems. Make your family aware of the situation, and keep them away from the suspicious home.

3. Stay on top of law enforcement, especially if you live in a crime-ridden area. Often, law enforcement agents are outnumbered by criminals in high-crime areas. Your persistence may ensure quicker results.

4. Unite with your neighbors. Form a Neighborhood Watch chapter or join your local Crime Stoppers International unit (see Resources below). By making your intolerance known, you can drive criminals out of your area.

5. Submit reports and tips to multiple agencies or outlets. That way, you can cover all the bases and ensure a stronger response.

Tips & Warnings

• You have the right to remain anonymous. Ask if your anonymity is protected before providing information.

• Don't discuss what you've seen with neighbors or anyone else besides law enforcement officials. Doing otherwise compromises your confidentiality, so be sure to speak with only those you trust.

• Never try to take matters into your own hands. Leave law enforcement to authorities who can determine how best to proceed. Never put yourself at risk for retaliation.