WINNIPEG – Citizens in Winnipeg now have new options for reporting crime.
Starting in October 2012, the Winnipeg Police Service announced a citizen online reporting system. This initiative was part of the Service’s Strategic Plan to improve public access to police processes through technological and electronic means.
Since becoming operational, many benefits have been realized; however, enhancements to this service are ongoing. With continuing high call volumes, these enhancements will allow for more effective management of calls for service.
When applicable, citizens may access online reporting through the Winnipeg Police Service webpage. Citizens are greeted with criteria and instructions for online reporting, and upon choosing a reportable occurrence, are guided through a series of steps to complete their report.
The current reporting categories can only be reported when the suspect(s) is/are not known and include:
• Break and Enter into out-building
• Theft Under $5,000
• Damage/Mischief to Property under $5,000.
• Theft from Motor Vehicle under $5,000
• Damage/Mischief to Motor Vehicle under $5,000
• Traffic Complaints
• Lost Property
• Retail Theft Under $5000
The Winnipeg Police Service has now, as of December 20, 2018, expanded the citizen online reporting system with the addition of the seven new reporting categories and the introduction of a Quick Connect Service. These incidents can be reported when a suspect is both known and unknown and include:
• Fraud via Identity Theft under $5,000
• Fraud via Scam under $5,000
• Fraud via Failure to provide Services under $ 5,000
• Fraud via Unauthorized use/possession of Payment Device under $5,000
• Crime tip: Drug Complaints; Marihuana Grow or Drug Lab
• Crime tip: Drug Complaints; Using, Dealing and/or Selling
• Crime tip: Gang Activity and/or Problem Locations
Online reports are then reviewed by police officers, and entered into the records management system. The reports receive the same investigation and statistical analysis as if they had been reported traditionally.
Additionally, the introduction of the new Quick Connect Service provides citizens with a more efficient method to access our online reporting system. This feature allows Winnipeg Police Service call takers to efficiently transfer a citizen to the Quick Connect Service automated online reporting telephone number. They will then be prompted to enter their cell phone number and the Quick Connect Service will text a link to the Winnipeg Police Service online reporting system.
The new options serve to streamline the Winnipeg Police Service reporting system, providing an alternative for citizens. Online reporting does not replace traditional reporting methods. Citizens are encouraged to utilize the Winnipeg Police Service online reporting system or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-8477 should they wish to remain anonymous.
