Newport police offer online crime reporting

The public can now report crimes online to Newport Beach police.

The department has introduced the Internet option in an effort to save time and money, officials said.

As long as the incident occurred within city limits, you can report it to Newport Beach police.

Among the types of incidents reportable through the department’s website, www.nbpd.org, are vandalism, theft and harassing phone calls.

There are specific criteria to reporting a crime online, officials said.

There cannot be any suspect information, physical evidence found at the scene, and it should not be an emergency.

After filling out the form, which can be found on the site after clicking on the “Online Services” at the top of the department’s web page, you will be given a temporary case number.

Officers will contact you if they need additional information.

The feature is only one of other services the department offers online. Newport Beach residents can request patrol checks on their home while away on vacation.

If you’re not sure whether you should file your report online, call the department at (949) 644-3717.

Reports can be filed at www.nbpd.org/services/report.asp.

— Joseph Serna