The Stress-Free Way to File a Police Report Online in Houston

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How to File a Police Report Online: Houston

If you've been the victim of a crime, you may be wondering if it's possible to file a police report online. for certain minor crimes. Experiencing a crime can be distressing and unsettling, even if no one is injured.

Needing to make a phone call or an in-person visit to the police department to report the crime can add stress to the situation. If you've suffered from a serious crime or need an immediate response, you'll need to contact the police by phone or in person. However, there are several situations in which you can make your report online. This article will cover what you can report online and how DoNotPay can make it even simpler.

How Can I File a Police Report in Houston?

There are a few different choices for how to report a crime or depending on the specifics of what happened and how you were involved.

EmergencyIf you or someone else is experiencing an emergency and require immediate police response or medical attention, call 911.
OnlineYou can file a police report through an online form under certain conditions. The five requirements are:
  1. You personally are the victim of the crime. You cannot file an online report if you were a witness or a friend or family member of the victim.
  2. You have access to a functioning email address. You'll need to provide this for any follow-up communication.
  3. The crime you're reporting is theft of up to $5000 in value or criminal mischief with up to $5000 in damage.
  4. There is no evidence left behind or information about suspects. If that information exists, the police will need to come to the scene in-person to collect evidence and speak to witnesses.
  5. The crime occurred within the city limits of Houston.

The types of crimes that will fit these requirements will generally be things like the theft of a relatively small item like a cell phone or a wallet or vandalism of your home or business.

By phoneIf you need to report a crime that doesn't fit the requirements for reporting online, you can do so by phone at 713-884-3131. You'll need to report by phone if any of the following conditions apply:
  • There was any evidence left behind, like fingerprints or burglary tools.
  • You have any information about a suspect, like a physical description or license plate number.
  • There were any injuries.
  • There was any type of force or break-in.

All of these conditions will require the police to respond in person so they can collect evidence, take information from witnesses and ensure that everyone present is safe.

What Else Can I Report Online in Houston?

In addition to a general police report, there are several other specific online forms available to report your concerns to the Houston Police Department. If you want to report suspicious activity that you've witnessed, you may be able to do so through one of these four options:

  1. Alert Slip: This allows citizens to request extra patrols around their homes or businesses because of concerns like burglaries, excessive speeding or leaving the property unattended. You can find this form on the Houston Police website.
  2. Crime Stoppers: This online form or phone tip line allows you to leave an anonymous report about a crime or suspicious activity that you've witnessed. Visit crime-stoppers.org for links and details.
  3. I Watch Houston: If you see suspicious activity that could be an indication of a terrorist threat, you can report it through this form at iwatchhouston.org.
  4. Gang Activity: You can report suspected gang activity online at stophousegangs.org.

Easily File a Police Report With DoNotPay

Figuring out what you can file online and how to do so can be overwhelming, especially when you're already stressed about the theft, property damage, or other crime you've suffered. DoNotPay's fast, easy and successful system for filing police reports saves you time and stress. DoNotPay can help you file a police report in any city or county at your convenience.

How to File a Police Report Using DoNotPay:

If you want to file a police report but don't know where to start, DoNotPay has you covered in 3 easy steps. These are:

  1. Search "police report" on DoNotPay and select the type of incident you would like to report.
  2. Tell us more about the incident that occurred, including the location, date, time, and sequence of events. Include information on financial losses, personal injuries, or property damage that happened as a result.
  3. List any suspects or witnesses you are aware of, verify your contact information, and submit.

What Else Can DoNotPay Do?

DoNotPay can help you for a number of crimes and incidents. These include:

In addition to filing police reports, DoNotPay can help you with a number of other problems, including:

  • Taking someone to small claims court
  • Putting together standardized legal documents
  • Making insurance claims

If you need to file a police report easily, contact DoNotPay today.

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