Should i report suspicious activity

This may include the use of cameras either still or video , note taking, drawing diagrams, annotating on maps, or using binoculars or other vision-enhancing devices. Elicitation : People or organizations attempting to gain information about security operations, capabilities or people. Elicitation attempts may be made by mail, fax, telephone or in person. Tests of security : Any attempt to measure reaction times to security breaches or to penetrate physical security barriers or procedures in order to assess strengths and weaknesses.

Acquiring supplies : Purchasing or stealing explosives, weapons, ammunition, etc. Also includes acquiring military, police or security uniforms, decals, flight manuals, maps or badges or the equipment to manufacture such items or other controlled items.

This especially is true when planning a kidnapping, but it also can pertain to bombings. An element of this activity also could include mapping out routes and determining the timing of traffic lights and flow of traffic. Deploying assets : People and supplies getting into position to commit the act. Others may notice suspicious activity and be hesitant to call for fear of seeming to be a "nosy neighbor" or a "crank.

Call the police immediately about all suspicious activity-and do it yourself. Don't worry about "bothering" them, because this is the police department's purpose.

Don't worry about being embarrassed if your suspicions prove unfounded. Think instead about what could happen if you don't act. Reports can be made any time by dialing or calling Describing a Suspicious Incident to Police The following information is the most helpful when reporting an incident: Who did I observe?

What specifically did I see? Where did I observe the suspicious behavior? When did I observe the suspicious behavior? Why do I think the behavior is suspicious? Plus, for a person: Age approximate Build medium, heavyset, thin, etc. Clothing from head to toe, style, defects Complexion light, dark, ruddy, olive Eyes color, glasses Hair color, length, including facial hair Height approximate; use 2-inch blocks Method of escape direction, vehicle, etc.

Peculiarities scars, tattoos, missing limbs Race Sex Weapons if any Weight approximate; use 10 lb. Damage or anything unusual logos, etc. A scream heard anywhere may mean robbery or rape. Offers of merchandise at ridiculously low prices could mean stolen property.

Anyone removing accessories, license plates, or gasoline from a car should be reported. Anyone peering into parked cars may be looking for valuables left displayed in the car.

Persons entering or leaving a business place after hours could be burglars. The sound of breaking glass or other explosive noises could mean an accident, housebreaking, or vandalizing. Persons loitering around schools, parks, secluded areas, or in the neighborhood could be sex offenders. When in doubt, call the police immediately. Do not lose precious time discussing the event with friends and neighbors first.

Types of activity that residents should report include people, vehicles or circumstances that appear unusual or out of place, such as: A stranger around your neighborhood or a strange vehicle parked in your neighborhood for a long period of time Someone looking into houses or vehicles Someone tampering with he electric, gas, water or sewer system without an identifiable company vehicle or uniform An unusual amount of traffic coming to a house or apartment building Houses or buildings where extreme security measures seem to have been taken Houses or buildings where no owner or primary renter is apparent and no home activities yard work, painting or maintenance seems to go on Strange odors coming from around the houses or buildings Door-to-door solicitors without solicitor permits or any stranger knocking on doors Persons standing around possibly acting as lookouts Dial If you suspect a crime is being committed or is about to be committed call Do not panic or put yourself at risk.

This will settle your mind, allow you to take in your surroundings, and allow you to assess any dangers related - or unrelated - to the situation.

The call taker is focused on what you are reporting at that moment. Information the call taker may ask for includes:. When giving a description of a person to the call taker, first describe things they can't easily change:. If you are reporting a suspicious vehicle - or a suspicious person in a vehicle - please provide as much information about the vehicle as you can.

Home Need Help? Reporting Suspicious Behavior We can't stress enough the importance of reporting suspicious behavior. What is suspicious behavior? If it's suspicious to you , it's worth reporting it to Examples include: Unusual noises, including screaming, sounds of fighting, breaking glass People in or around buildings or areas who do not appear to be conducting legitimate business Unauthorized people in restricted areas Vehicles driving slowly and aimlessly through neighborhoods, around schools or parking lots People peering into parked vehicles that are not their own People who change their behavior when they notice they have been seen People dressed inappropriately for the weather or occasion, i.

We urge you to call when: You believe someone is in physical danger You believe a specific crime is happening You believe something is suspicious What makes it suspicious? What to think about when you call Where are you?