Robbery: How to File a Police Report

This article gives a brief definition of "Robbery" and explains how and why you should file a Police report if you are a victim.

Definition of Robbery

The definition of robbery is the intentional taking of another person's property using force or fear. (Note: "force" or "fear" is the key elements and criteria for Robbery)

How to file the Police report

If you are a victim of Robbery then you have experienced a face-to-face confrontation with a suspect who used force or fear to take your property. This certainly qualifies for calling 9-1-1 and getting the Police to your location as soon as possible. Once the Police arrive and make sure you are OK, a Police report will be taken there at the scene.

If you decide to file later for any reason, you will file the Police report in the jurisdiction where the Robbery took place. Find out what reporting options are available to you. You may be able to file on-line, over the phone, at the Police station or have a patrol car come to your house.

What you need to file the Police report

Providing the Police with as much detail and information that you can is vital. Robbery is a more serious crime therefore, any details and information you have about the suspect, the weapon used, the suspect's car, what property was taken etc., no matter how slight will help the Police catch the criminal.

Why file a Robbery report

You are filing a Robbery report for several reasons. First, a suspect could be caught which prevents anyone else becoming a victim. Robbers normally rob multiple people and eventually are caught and filing a report will help convict the criminal.

Filing Police reports also help the Police track where crime is occurring so they can put more Police resources in the areas where crime is highest.

You also file a Robbery report for insurance reasons. Your home or renters insurance may cover any or all of your loss.

Filing a Robbery report can also be a write off as a loss at the end of the year on your income tax. Ask your taxman if you qualify.

Conclusion

Filing a Robbery report with the Police is a detailed process. The Police usually input the information into a teletype to all other Police agencies with all pertinent information of the suspect and it becomes a joint effort to capture this armed and dangerous felon.

Make sure, once you file a Police report that you always get your Police report case number and either a receipt that you filed a report or an actual copy of the report for your records.

Article also posted on Triond by Scott Hallock