How to File a Shoplifting Report Online
Many police departments across the country allow citizens to file police reports online as long as the report is not related to a violent crime or an emergency crime, such as abuse, rape or a vehicle theft. Shoplifting is not considered a violent crime and therefore, if the police department in the city or county where the theft occurred has an online police report option, you can file your report online. Not all police departments give you this option.
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Instructions
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Go to the website of the police department in the city or county where the shoplifting occurred and locate the section on the department's website that outlines the procedures for filing police reports. Check to see if there is an option for filing a report online; click on it.
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Follow the online instructions. Each department website features a different layout, which means that the instructions won't be the same on every site but the information required in the report is the same no matter where the incident occurred.
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Provide the information regarding the shoplifting, such as where the crime occurred, when it happened, your name and contact information, information on the suspected shoplifter and any contact information you have on the suspect -- if you have any information on the suspect.
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Enter any additional information the police department requires -- if applicable -- and submit your police report. The police department will contact you in regards to you report and to follow up on the crime and attempt to recover your property and punish the shoplifters.
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Tips & Warnings
Certain stipulations might prevent you from filing a shoplifting police report online in certain cities. For example, you can file a shoplifting report online in Houston, Texas but you cannot file it online if the items shoplifted total more than $5,000.
References
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