Filing a police report is the official reporting of a criminal offence to the police. It forms the start of a criminal process. What does this entail and what rights do you have in Zoetermeer?
What does filing a police report mean?
Filing a police report is the formal reporting of a crime to the police, whereby you ask them to investigate the case.
Difference between report and police report
| Characteristic | Report | Police report |
|---|---|---|
| Formal nature | Not formal | Formal, with signature |
| Result | No legal follow-up steps | Possible prosecution |
| Documentation | Limited registration | Full registration |
How can you file a police report in Zoetermeer?
There are various ways to file a police report, depending on the situation.
Ways to file a police report
- At the police station: Schedule an appointment or visit the station in Zoetermeer
- Via internet: Use the website politie.nl for specific cases
- By telephone: Call 0900-8844 for certain incidents
- In writing: Send a letter to the public prosecutor
For which cases online police report?
- Theft (e.g. bicycle or from vehicle)
- Burglary
- Damage due to vandalism
- Online fraud
- Identity misuse
Mandatory police report
In some situations, you are legally required to file a police report.
When must you file a police report?
- Upon knowledge of serious crimes such as murder or terrorism
- Civil servants: for crimes in the line of duty
- Certain professions: specific reporting obligations
What follows after your police report?
The process after filing a police report involves several phases.
Steps after police report
- You receive a copy of your police report
- The police determine if investigation is feasible
- If sufficient evidence, an investigation starts
- The Public Prosecution Service decides on prosecution
- You are informed of the outcome
No guarantee of prosecution
Filing a police report does not guarantee that a case will be prosecuted.
Possible reasons for non-prosecution
- Insufficient evidence
- Suspect not traceable
- Case too minor for priority
- Alternative handling such as mediation
Your rights after filing a police report
If you file a police report, you have specific rights.
Rights of the complainant
- Information on the progress of the case
- Notification of the Public Prosecution Service's decision
- Possibility of article 12 CCP procedure in case of dismissal
- Access to victim support
Criminal liability for false police report
Filing a false police report is a criminal offence (art. 188 Criminal Code) and may lead to a prison sentence of up to 1 year.
Practical tips for filing a police report
- Report the incident as soon as possible to preserve evidence
- Gather evidence such as photos or chats
- Write down witness details
- Keep your police report copy safe
- Inquire about victim support in Zoetermeer
Frequently asked questions about filing a police report in Zoetermeer
What does filing a police report entail?
It is an official report to the police of a criminal offence. This requests the start of an investigation.
In what ways can I file a police report?
You can do this at the police station in Zoetermeer, online via politie.nl, by telephone via 0900-8844 or in writing.
What is the difference between a report and a police report?
A report is informal and does not lead to a process, whereas a police report is formal and may result in investigation and prosecution.
Can I file an anonymous police report?
Yes, this is possible via telephone, letter or online tip lines. The police do not then know your identity, but can still take action.
What information must I provide when filing a police report?
Provide as many details as possible: what happened, where and when, who was involved and whether there are witnesses.