REPORTING A NON-EMERGENCY   (375-2626)

Most of the calls that you and your neighbors place to the Wayne Police Department are for non-emergencies. For example, if you discover that a crime has occurred such as a burglary or theft but you did not witness the incident and don't know when it happened, you should call the non-emergency line, 375-2626(24 hours).

You can assist Wayne Police Department in deterring crime by reporting potential criminal activity BEFORE a crime has been committed or completed. Following are examples of suspicious activity that you should report to the police:

SUSPICIOUS PERSONS

Going door-to-door in a residential area. Burglars often case an area by simply knocking on doors to see if anyone is home. If a stranger knocks on your door, take the time to check them. If you don't, you may unwittingly be sending a burglar on to continue their search.

Non-residents entering a yard. Be wary of strangers you see entering neighbor's property. Try calling your neighbor and then call the police if you're still unsure.

Waiting in front of a house. If you see a stranger loitering near a home you know is unoccupied, they may be acting as a lookout for a burglary. Forcing entrance to a home or vehicle. Some burglars are so brazen that a casual observer may assume that someone has simply locked themselves out. Be alert!

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLES

Slow moving vehicles. Burglars sometimes look for their target by driving aimlessly about, passing by repeatedly.

Parked, occupied vehicles. Burglars also will park their car and strike the home of someone they see leaving.

Vans and trucks. Be wary of a large vehicle you've never seen before parked next to a home or in a driveway. Verify that it belongs there.

Remember, trust your instincts. If you observe something that just doesn't seem right, follow through. Don't say to yourself, "It's probably nothing and besides, the police are probably too busy to check it out". Actually, police officers would much rather respond to your call and have it result in a false alarm than to miss an opportunity to prevent a crime or apprehend a criminal.