Spiral SearchHow to Report a Crime Anonymously in Florida
When to call 911, when to use a non-emergency line, and how to send a tip without giving your name.
Option 1: Crime Stoppers (statewide)
Florida has 27 local Crime Stoppers programs. From any cellphone in Florida you can dial *TIPS (that is *8477); the call is routed automatically to the Crime Stoppers program for the area you are in. According to the Florida Attorney General's announcement, you will also get a link to the free P3 Tips app, which lets you send a tip without speaking to anyone. Rewards may be paid for tips that lead to an arrest.
Many local programs also take tips on their own websites. Search for the Crime Stoppers program for your county.
Option 2: Your local police or sheriff
You can use the non-emergency number for your police department or sheriff's office to report a crime that is not in progress, and many agencies also have an online reporting form or tip form. Tell the call-taker if you want to remain anonymous, but note that a report to a law enforcement agency may not be anonymous unless the agency says it is. Spiral Search lists the police station and its non-emergency number by ZIP code.
What to include in a tip
- What happened or is happening, and when.
- Where: address, nearby landmarks, the business name.
- Who: names, nicknames, descriptions (height, build, clothing, tattoos), vehicle make, color, plate or partial plate.
- How you know: what you saw or heard yourself versus what you were told.
- Anything that proves it: photos, messages, dates. Do not put yourself at risk to get them.
Protecting your anonymity
- Do not give your name, phone number or other identifying details unless you choose to.
- Avoid details that only you could know, if you want to stay unidentified.
- Do not confront anyone or investigate on your own.
- Keep any tip ID or case number the system gives you so you can follow up and claim a reward without revealing who you are.
Child abuse and elder abuse have their own hotlines in Florida. If you suspect a child is being abused, the Florida Abuse Hotline is the right place to report, and you can ask to remain anonymous.