Reporting a Crime
These phrases will help you report a crime to the police, describe suspects, and request official documentation.
Key Phrases
I would like to report a theft that occurred approximately ten minutes ago at the main train station.
💡 Use this opening line to state clearly what happened and precisely when and where it occurred.
My backpack was stolen while I was purchasing a ticket at the automated vending machine.
💡 This passive construction is useful when you want to focus on the object that was taken.
The suspect, who was wearing a black leather jacket, fled the scene in a northwards direction.
💡 Use a relative clause to add specific details about the appearance of the person who ran.
Although the area was poorly lit, I managed to get a clear description of the individual.
💡 This helps you introduce contrasting details about your visibility of the event despite the bad lighting.
I need to make a formal statement regarding the incident that took place outside the museum.
💡 Use this expression when you are ready to write down your official account of the crime.
If I had noticed the missing wallet earlier, I would have notified the transit security immediately.
💡 This third conditional sentence explains past regrets or actions that you wish you had taken sooner.
Could you please inform me how I can obtain a certified copy of the official police report?
💡 This polite request is essential if you need to submit documentation to your travel insurance company.
Since my credit cards were in the bag, I must contact my financial institution immediately to cancel them.
💡 Use this to explain the immediate consequence of the theft and why you need to call.