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I've witnessed a crime, how can I handle this situation safely?

Profile: NovemberJuliet2014
NovemberJuliet2014 on Nov 17, 2014
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First of all - are you in a safe environment at the moment, or can you get you a safe environment? You can report crime anonymously in the UK both to the police on 101 in non emergency situations, or 999 in emergencies - or using Crimestoppers, who will pass on the information you give to the police. Please bear in mind that everyone copes with witnessing events differently, and what one person may 'bounce back' from may have a long lasting effect on another. You can be traumatised by, if not fully experience the effects of PTSD, and not be the direct victim of a crime, but a witness to it. Remember that most people who aren't involved in criminal justice (or emergency services) go through their daily lives not expecting to see criminal activity, or people at their worst, or just horrific events. Be aware of the signs of shock (clammy feeling skin, anxious, panic attack like feelings and shallow breathing). Also be aware of adrenaline dump after witnessing/being involved in these situations, which in turn can aggravate the risk of going into shock. In short, remember the safety of yourself and those around you. There are professionals who are highly trained in tactics to deal with situations that arise, some that are particularly heinous. Always remember your safety.
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Profile: CERISHEEHAN
CERISHEEHAN on Dec 30, 2014
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The safest thing to do once witnessing a crime is to call the emergency services. Then have a hot beverage and then afterwards, to talk to someone about the crime.
Profile: TEMI4LIVE2
TEMI4LIVE2 on Mar 13, 2015
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Do not interfere during the crime it is very dangerous, you can only call Emergency number to report to the authority. And when given your report do not add or remove any information, then your mind will be at peace.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on May 28, 2018
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Make sure you get to a safe place. Then contact the authorities I have found that seemed to work out okay when I experienced a crime happen in front of me.
Profile: Sofia
Sofia on Oct 22, 2014
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If someone has been hurt and is in definite need of assistance, then giving them first aid if you can and calling an abulance/medical assistance is highly recommended. The wisest thing might be to make sure you are safe. Remove yourself to a safe location where you can first and foremost, calm down. If you've witnessed a crime, you'll be upset, to say the least, and depending on the crime. Once you are stable and feel safe, the option is: a) go home and try to forget, b) contact the authorities, and definitely a lawyer, just to be covered.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Oct 25, 2014
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Write down everything you remember so as not to forget it. Then report it to the police at a moment you can where you yourself are safe from harm
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Oct 25, 2014
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Depending on the crime that was witnessed always make sure that you are in a safe place and safe location. Try not to bring attention to yourself and try not to be a hero in the situation. When you feel you are safe enough to do so get out of the area as quickly as possible and find someone whom you trust. If this was a very serious crime you may want to consider calling your local police or 911 but always making sure that your safe to do so.
Profile: Pandette
Pandette on Oct 27, 2014
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Instead of discussing the situation with someone face-to-face, you can always submit a tip anonymously. I know for a fact in Ontario, we have this hotline called CrimeStoppers. See if there is anything such as this in your area! :)
Profile: CaitlinRose
CaitlinRose on Oct 31, 2014
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The best thing to do for everyone's safety (including your own) is to make an anonymous report to the police regarding what you have seen and heard.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Oct 31, 2014
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call the police and wait for a response and tell them everything u seen then let them deal with it
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Nov 4, 2014
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Call the police and tell them what you witnessed. If your safety is at risk, they will take care of you. The most responsible and safe thing you can do is go to the professionals: call 9-1-1.
Profile: ContendingBand
ContendingBand on Nov 13, 2014
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The first thing you should do if you've witnessed is to call the local authorities. If you are in personal danger, seek intimidate help.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Dec 26, 2014
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tell the police. do not try to fix it yourself they is a chance that you will get harmed or worse in the progress.
Profile: soulruin5
soulruin5 on Jul 6, 2015
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Sounds like a nerve racking situation, if you want to remain anonymous you can phone your local police station and leave an anonymous tip stating the crime you have observed.
Profile: ConallBranagin
ConallBranagin on Aug 10, 2015
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Call the police, write down all you know, if you have the opportunity take photos with your phone. Get to safety if you feel you are in danger. Do not try to do anything to stop the crime. Please let the authorities handle it.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Nov 17, 2015
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You can anonymously report the criminal activity to someone you trust. Be sure to have a person with you at all times if the criminal suspects you of reporting them, and have witness protection provided by your state or government.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Sep 20, 2016
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Make sure you are in a safe place - such as home - and then contact the police. Ask to remain anonymous if you are still truly afraid.
Profile: Youareberrybeautiful
Youareberrybeautiful on Nov 8, 2016
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Depending on the type of crime your reaction would be different along with the coinciding trauma. I recommend you stay calm, breathe, try not to draw attention to yourself and call the police. If you must walk a ways away that may help as well.
Profile: Gracey
Gracey on Aug 15, 2017
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Are you able to speak to the police and report the crime? Also make sure you get support yourself if you need to deal with what you witnessed.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Sep 1, 2020
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If you have possibility to report the crime anonimously to police, you can try to do it. Go to a space, where no one will be able to see and hear and reach you and call the anonymous police number. Say to police what happened, where it happened and any details about criminal and crime you know. If there is no anonymous police number, you can report the crime by calling emergency police number, but do it where no one will be able to see or hear you or reach to you while calling police and talking to police. People who reported crime are usually protected,
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