Red Deerians can now report many crimes, including incidents of theft and vandalism, online.
Red Deer RCMP announced Monday’s the start of the Alberta RCMP’s online crime reporting pilot program.
Alberta RCMP wanted to give the public a more convenient and accessible way to report crimes, such as theft under $5,000 and mischief, say police.
The goal is to ensure all crime is reported — no matter how small. This provides the most accurate crime data and allows resources to be deployed in the areas that need it most, said Supt. Gerald Grobmeier, officer in charge of the Red Deer RCMP detachment.
Reporting less serious crime online also allows emergency dispatchers and front-line members to focus their time on high-priority calls.
“We take all reports of crime seriously, and crime reported online will be treated the same as crime reported in any other way,” said Grobmeier.
He also noted, “As we … change how we conduct business during COVID-19, online reporting allows citizens to report certain crimes to police while adhering to physical distancing.”
Online crime reporting is available at ocre-sielc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/alberta.
Citizens can go online to report damage to property under $5,000, theft under $5,000 and lost property.
No crimes involving personal identity, firearms, licence plates or decals can be reported online.
If a crime falls outside these conditions, the public is asked to call the Red Deer RCMP at 403-343-5575.
Crimes in progress, or situations where immediate police presence is required, is a 9-1-1 call.
Once a crime is reported online, the complaint will be followed up within five business days, say police.