Filing a police report might seem daunting, but the Houston Police Department offers an online reporting system to make this process more convenient for certain non-emergency situations. This guide will walk you through How To File A Police Report online in Houston, ensuring you understand the process, eligibility, and limitations.
This online system is designed for Houston residents to report specific incidents from their home, workplace, or anywhere with internet access. After submitting your report, you will receive a temporary incident number immediately. Your report will then be reviewed by the appropriate Houston Police Department division. Upon approval, you will receive an email containing a permanent incident number and a copy of your filed report for your records.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the online police report system is not for every situation. Never use this system for emergencies, crimes in progress, or incidents involving injuries. In case of an emergency, always dial 9-1-1. For situations requiring immediate police officer response but are not emergencies, call 713-884-3131.
Furthermore, filing a false police report is a crime. This online form is strictly for reporting a limited set of offenses under specific conditions. Let’s explore what you can and cannot report online.
What Types of Incidents Can You Report Online?
You can use the Houston Police Department’s online system to report the following types of incidents:
- Lost Property: If you have lost an item and need to file a report. Note that lost firearms cannot be reported online.
- Theft (Under $30,000, Non-Vehicle Related): For thefts where the total value of stolen items is less than $30,000 and not related to vehicles. This applies when there are no suspects or witnesses. For example, if your bicycle is stolen from your yard. If the value exceeds $30,000, you must report it through other channels.
- Theft of Services: Situations where you paid for a service but didn’t receive it, or you provided a service but were not paid.
- Vandalism/Criminal Mischief (Under $5,000 Damage, Non-Vehicle Related): Reporting damage or vandalism to your property (excluding vehicles) without suspects or witnesses, where the damage value is less than $5,000. For instance, if someone damages your property intentionally. Burglary of a home, building, or vehicle should not be classified as Criminal Mischief/Vandalism.
- Environmental Crimes “Illegal Dumping”: Reporting the illegal disposal of trash, garbage, waste, or sewage on public or private land.
Who Can File an Online Police Report?
To be eligible to file a report online, you must meet the following criteria:
- Valid Email Address: You need a working email address to receive updates and your report details.
- Direct Victim: You must be the actual victim of the theft, loss, or criminal mischief. Witnesses, relatives, or friends cannot file on behalf of someone else online.
When Can You NOT Use the Online Police Report System?
The online system has specific limitations. You cannot use this form if:
- Incident Location: The crime or incident occurred outside the city limits of Houston, Texas.
- Evidence Present: If there is any physical evidence at the scene, such as fingerprints or tools, that needs police collection or processing.
- Suspect Information: If you have any information about a suspect, like a license plate number, surveillance photos, or descriptions.
- Emergency Situation: As stated before, for any emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Forced Entry or Break-in: If any force was used to enter a property or building (burglary), you cannot report online. Contact 713-884-3131 for burglary reports.
- Injuries Involved: If anyone sustained injuries during the incident.
- Stolen Vehicle: Do not use this form to report a stolen vehicle. Call 713-884-3131 to report auto theft.
- Traffic Accidents: This system is not for reporting crashes, accidents, or hit and run incidents.
By understanding these guidelines, you can determine if your situation is suitable for using the online police report system. If your incident meets the criteria, filing online can be a convenient way to officially report it to the Houston Police Department.
To proceed with filing your report online if eligible, you can visit the Houston Police Department Online Reporting Portal. Remember to answer all questions accurately and truthfully to ensure your report is processed correctly.
