How to Report a Crime While Incarcerated

It is possible that you will witness a crime while incarcerated. If so, you may wish to report it to the proper authorities. Follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access

Report Crimes to Prison Officials

1. Notify a corrections officer if you are the victim of a crime or have witnessed an offense.

2. Report any crime committed by prison guards to the warden.

3. Request protection or a transfer to a more secure part of the prison if you have reason to fear retribution after reporting a crime.

4. File a complaint with the American Civil Liberties Union (see Resources below) if prison officials fail to provide you with reasonable protection from harm.

5. Tell a friend or loved one if you are being victimized in prison. This person may be able to advocate for you from outside the prison walls.

Tips & Warnings

• If you report a crime in prison, you may be labeled a snitch by fellow inmates. It is possible that your fellow inmates may try to harm you as revenge. However, lying to corrections officers may get you into legal trouble.

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