How to Report a Crime Anonymously
Deciding whether to report a crime or not can be tough. We know there can be a lot of factors folks consider: not knowing enough about the process, fear, or past negative experiences. No matter what, it is everyone’s right to make this decision, as they are in control and know what is best for them and their lives.
Anonymity can lessen the pressure a person may feel when speaking with law enforcement, or allow folks to understand their options when still deciding whether to file a report.
Before we begin, we’d like to acknowledge another important aspect of reporting: consent. We highly encourage bystanders and reporters to have permission from the person possibly being harmed before reporting to law enforcement. The person involved may not feel comfortable, safe, or ready (among many other reasons) reporting to the police.
NOTE: The options listed here are considered nonemergency lines of contact, meaning that the person who receives and intakes the information assumes the crime is not currently happening or life-threatening at that moment. Because of this, it may take time for the agency/organization to determine the best course of action.
The options here also assume that this is not a mandatory reporting situation.
Option 1: Report through the DC Victim Hotline
The DC Victim Hotline (844)-4HELPDC provides free support to victims of any crime in DC through their Victim Assistance Specialists. Specialists can provide information and referrals 24/7 to anyone needing assistance.
You are also able to contact them via text at the same number, or chat with them online here.
The DC Victim Hotline can provide a person with options on reporting and can assist them with resources for what they feel most comfortable proceeding with. They are not affiliated directly with the police, but can guide someone through that process if that is what they request.
Option 2: Contact the Metropolitan Police Department’s Anonymous Tip Line via Phone Call
If someone feels comfortable reporting to the police, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has a tip line where anyone can report a crime anonymously. Please note, they must request to remain anonymous when contacting them. This tip line is for cases where:
The crime is not happening at the current moment;
The people involved are not in an immediate life-threatening situation
The tip line operates 24/7, and anyone can call to provide information on a potential crime. The MPD operator will then contact the relevant department/team to investigate.
Anonymous Tip Line (Phone Call): (202) 727-9099
Option 3: Contact the Metropolitan Police Department’s Anonymous Tip Line via Text
If someone is unable or feels uncomfortable making a phone call, the MPD also operates its Anonymous Tip Line via text. As with reporting via phone call, the Anonymous Text Line should be used for non-active, non-life-threatening tips.
Text the Tip Line: 50411
Option 4: Volare’s Anonymous Crime Victims’ Rights Clinic
Volare offers free, confidential legal clinics to anyone seeking support relating to a possible crime. Our Anonymous Crime Victims’ Rights clinic provides survivors with one-on-one appointments with our attorneys to discuss their concerns or questions.
Appointments are scheduled in advance, with attorneys available on Wednesdays from 10:45 AM–1 PM, or Fridays from 2:45 PM–5 PM. Please note that the person making the appointment must be a victim/survivor of a crime that was committed in DC to speak with an attorney during clinic hours.
Attorneys will provide information about the person’s rights as a victim/survivor; the criminal legal system in DC; and their options for next steps.
This clinic is designed to provide survivors/victims support no matter where they are in the criminal legal process, including if they haven’t decided to report to the police.
Volare also offers specialized clinics for Title IX and Appeals cases. These are not anonymous.
Learn more about Volare’s legal clinics here.
Not sure where to start? Visit our “Get Help” page to learn more about someone’s options.
Someone knowing their options when reporting a crime is critical for everyone if they are unsure whether to report. It is essential to think of what the survivor wants to pursue–that’s survivor-defined justice! Allowing folks the choice to decide if, how, and when they’d like to report is deeply important in their healing journey.
