How to file an online report
Watch the short tutorial video below that will walk you through the online reporting process and tell you how to avoid the most common mistakes people make when reporting an incident.
Before Filing
Confirm your incident is none of the following before filing online:
- An emergency (call 911 instead)
- Suspect is known (contact the Bellingham Police Department)
- Occurred outside of Bellingham City limits (contact the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office)
- Occurred on Interstate 5 (call Washington State Patrol at (360) 676-2076)
- Collision resulting in damages under $1,000 (File report with Washington State Patrol)
- Identity theft (contact the Bellingham Police Department and review our identity theft resources)
- Fraud/Scam with loss and not related to COVID-19 Unemployment Claims (contact the Bellingham Police Department)
After filing a report
You will:
- See the words: “Your online police report has been submitted” showing that your police report is complete.
- Be emailed a police report case number, once the report has been reviewed.
- Be able to print a copy of the police report to keep for your records.
Notes
- All cases filed using the Citizens Online Police Reporting System will be reviewed.
- Upon review, if further investigation of your case is needed, you may be contacted.
- Filing a false police report is a crime.
Start Filing
Review the entire list with definitions and examples as you begin the reporting process. If your incident is not listed in the category selection list, call the Bellingham Police Department (emergency 9-1-1; non-emergency (360) 676-6911) to file your report.
Contacts
