Witnesses play a key role in the criminal justice system. Ultimately, your information could prevent further crimes from taking place, and help bring offenders to justice.
Witnessing a crime can be an emotional experience. You may be shocked or angry by what you have seen, or feel uncertain about reporting the matter to the police.
Some crimes may not appear to have a victim, but they can still have a negative impact on the community. For example, graffiti on the wall of the local post office may seem minor, but it can be upsetting for visitors to the post office and residents nearby.
If you have witnessed a crime, you are not legally obliged to report it, but your input could make a tremendous difference to an investigation. Reporting information on a crime doesn’t always mean you will have to appear in court at a later date.
If you do choose to report information on a crime, South Wales Police will treat it seriously. We are grateful for any help you can provide.
In this section, you can find advice on making a statement, appearing in court as a witness, and information on witness protection.
Victim Support, the independent national charity for people affected by crime, also provides a comprehensive help service for witnesses. For more information, call 0845 612 1900 between 8am and 8pm or visit www.victimsupport.org.uk