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I wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for bringing online reporting to the attention of OrilliaMatters readers. I was interested in the poll results and they have inspired me to write to your publication to clarify some misconceptions.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Online Reporting tool is just one initiative to empower the public and to improve process productivity and service delivery using technology.
Though all crimes are important, minor crime calls (for example, a theft from a vehicle under $5,000, damaged property under $5,000 or a stolen licence plate) can be addressed more effectively online. An individual can conveniently report the crime, rather than wait for an officer to attend to take a report.
The OPP will never ignore a crime, whether it has been reported in person, on the phone or online. We are committed to the safety of our communities.
An increased use of online reporting will free up resources and provide more opportunities to focus on proactive, preventative crime initiatives. Additionally, it will provide police with an accurate understanding of crime in communities, by mapping and analyzing crime data.
Citizens can safely and conveniently file a non-emergency report from their cellphone, laptop, computer or tablet. Every report is reviewed by an officer for accuracy.
To access the system, a user can go to opp.ca/reporting, choose their location and click on Start a Report. This will take the user to a secure link where they will be given precise instructions on how to fill out the report.
An automatic report number will be provided once an online report is completed. An officer will contact the individual for additional information within 72 hours, if needed.
We welcome comments and suggestions from the public regarding the online reporting tool. Thank you again for this opportunity to clarify questions and concerns from the public we serve.
Inspector Veronica Eaton
Orillia Detachment Commander
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