1. How do I report a crime in progress?
Call 911 and speak with a dispatcher.
2. How do I report a past crime to the police?
Call the business line at 587-1100. You will speak with a dispatcher who will obtain some basic information about the incident. In most cases an officer will then be sent to your location to take the report. You may also walk into the police station and report the incident to the station officer.
3. I want to report a situation to the police, but I want it to be anonymous. Who should I call?
You may call the business line at 587-1100. Explain that you want to report a crime but that you do not want to reveal your identity. The dispatcher may take down the information and relay it to the appropriate party or you may be transferred to an Officer or Detective.
4. How do I report suspected child abuse?
You may call the police department at 587-1100 and an Officer or Detective will handle your call, answer questions, provide resources, and will determine the best course of action. You may also call the Department of Children and Families (DCF, formerly DSS) during business hours at 413-775-5000 and during non-business hours at 1-800-792-5200.
5. How do I report suspected elder abuse?
You may call the police department at 587-1100 and an Officer or Detective will handle your call, answer questions, provide resources, and will determine the best course of action. You may also call Highland Valley Elder Services during business hours at 413-586-2000 or call the Disabled Persons Protection Commission during non-business hours at 1-800-426-9009.
6. Why should I bother reporting a crime?
There are a number of reasons that people choose not to call the police. However, for the police to best serve the community, all crimes should be reported. It helps us to maintain accurate records regarding crime data, can help us to solve the reported crime or other associated crimes and is the best way for all of us to work together to prevent future criminal activity.
7. How can I report activity that may be related to terrorism?
The Northampton Police Department encourages anyone who sees something suspicious to report it immediately. We encourage the practice of, "If you see something, say something." People can call our non-emergency number or 911 and officers will respond to investigate your concern. The following is a link to the Department of Homeland Security website on terrorism resources including prevention strategies: https://www.dhs.gov/