The Ultimate Guide to Being a Witness: What to Do If You See a Crime
Or if you have information about a Missing Persons Case
The Ultimate Guide to Being a Witness: What to Do If You See a Crime or Have Information About a Missing Person
Want to be a Citizen Detective? Get our PDF on investigating cold cases at home!
Witnessing a crime or having vital information about a missing person can be overwhelming. You might feel unsure, scared, or even worried about your safety. But remember, your voice matters! Your information could be the key to solving a crime or bringing a missing loved one home. 🕵️♂️🔍
This guide will walk you through the best steps to take when you're a witness or have crucial details about a case. Stay informed, stay safe, and make a difference! 💡
1. Stay Safe First! 🚨
Before anything else, prioritize your safety.
If you witness a crime in progress, do not put yourself in harm's way.
Move to a safe location before calling for help.
Avoid confronting the suspect or intervening unless it's absolutely necessary to save a life.
If you suspect someone is following you after witnessing a crime, go to a public place and call for assistance.
💡 Tip: If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts! Seek shelter in a well-lit, populated area before making any calls.
2. Call 911 or Local Authorities 📞
If you witness a crime, report it as soon as possible. Quick reporting increases the chances of catching a suspect or saving a life.
When calling 911:
Speak clearly and stay calm.
Provide details like what happened, where it happened, and when it happened.
Describe any suspects, vehicles, or weapons involved.
If applicable, mention any injuries or immediate dangers.
Follow the dispatcher’s instructions carefully.
🚔 Bonus Tip: If you can’t talk safely, many 911 services allow you to text emergency services.
3. Take Mental (or Actual) Notes 📝
Your memory is freshest immediately after an event, so try to recall and jot down important details.
👀 What to Note:
Physical descriptions (height, clothing, tattoos, scars, etc.)
Vehicle information (license plate, make, model, color)
What was said (exact words can be crucial!)
Any unique details (limps, accents, behavior, etc.)
Which way they fled (direction, landmarks, possible hideouts)
📸 If safe, take pictures or videos, but never at the risk of being caught or hurt.
4. Don’t Alter Your Memory 🧠❌
Memory is tricky! The more we talk about an event, the more it can unintentionally change.
Avoid discussing details too much before speaking to authorities.
Stick to facts, not assumptions.
Don’t try to “fill in gaps”—if you don’t remember something, be honest.
👮 Pro Tip: Law enforcement may ask you to give a formal statement. Stick to what you saw and heard, not what you think happened.
5. Report Anonymously If Needed 🕶️
If you're scared to come forward, there are anonymous ways to help:
Crime Stoppers (📞 1-800-222-TIPS): Completely anonymous tip line.
Local police tip lines (many have online forms or hotlines for anonymous reporting).
FBI Tip Line (📞 1-800-CALL-FBI) for federal crimes or missing persons.
🕵️ Why Stay Anonymous? If you fear retaliation or legal complications, staying anonymous allows you to do the right thing without risk.
6. What If You Have Info About a Missing Person? 🕵️♀️
If you believe you have details about a missing person case:
Contact local law enforcement immediately.
Reach out to The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (📞 1-800-THE-LOST).
Submit a tip to NamUs (National Missing and Unidentified Persons System) (namus.gov).
Check social media pages of missing persons' families—they often have tip lines.
🌟 Golden Rule: No detail is too small! Even a minor observation can break a case wide open.
7. Use Social Media Wisely 📲
Social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness, but it also comes with risks.
✅ DO:
Share official missing persons posters.
Spread confirmed details from trusted sources.
Direct people to official tip lines.
❌ DON’T:
Post unverified information—spreading false details hurts investigations.
Name potential suspects publicly (this can damage cases or put you at risk).
Harass or falsely accuse anyone.
🔍 Think Before You Post: Is it helpful, truthful, and safe to share?
8. Know Your Legal Protections ⚖️
Many people hesitate to report crimes due to fear of legal trouble or retaliation. Here’s what you need to know:
Whistleblower Laws protect people who report illegal activities.
Good Samaritan Laws may protect you if you intervene in an emergency.
Most states allow for anonymous crime reporting.
If you’re ever subpoenaed as a witness, you may qualify for victim support programs (legal guidance, counseling, etc.).
⚠️ Concerned About Testifying? Talk to a lawyer or advocacy group to understand your rights.
9. Aftermath: Taking Care of Yourself 💙
Being involved in a crime—whether witnessing it or helping solve it—can be emotionally draining.
Ways to cope:
Talk to someone—a friend, therapist, or support group.
Stay updated (but not obsessed) about case progress.
Practice self-care—exercise, journal, or do something you enjoy.
Reach out for support—victim advocacy groups can help with trauma.
🤝 Helpful Resources:
National Crime Victim Helpline (📞 1-855-484-2846)
RAINN (for sexual assault survivors) (📞 1-800-656-HOPE)
NAMI (mental health support) (📞 1-800-950-6264)
🔥 Final Thought: YOU Can Make a Difference!
Your actions as a witness could save lives and bring justice. Whether it’s reporting a crime, helping find a missing person, or testifying in court, every piece of information counts.
🌟 Your voice matters. Your courage counts. And your decision to speak up could change everything. 🌟
Stay safe, stay aware, and always trust your instincts. 💙💪