“Strengthening Our Community: Reporting Crime and Suspicious Activity”
As your dedicated Sheriff, it is both an honor and a privilege to serve and protect our community. Today I want to reflect on a crucial message that requires your support and active participation to benefit each one of you: reporting crime and suspicious activity. By joining efforts, we can foster a more safe and secure environment for you and your family.
DeSoto County is built on trust, unity and a shared responsibility to keep each other safe. While the brave men and women of the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office work diligently to prevent crime and maintain public order, we rely on the eyes and ears of our citizens to work closely with us and be our partners to prevent crime. Reporting any criminal or suspicious activity you suspect or witness can make all the difference to identify and apprehend criminals before causing harm.
Crime and suspicious activity come in various forms and can spread through our neighborhoods, workplaces and even online. It is crucial to be proactive in recognizing and reporting any behavior or situations that seem out of the ordinary or potentially dangerous. Suspicious activity may include unusual behavior, unattended vehicles, strangers in unusual areas or individuals trying to access restricted areas.
To ensure our law enforcement deputies can facilitate a swift and effective response, it is vital you report any crime or suspicious activity you observe immediately. Your timely reporting provides us with valuable information and a better chance of preventing crimes and catching suspects!
Remember, DO NOT hesitate to contact our non-emergency line, which is staffed 24/7, at 863-993-4700. Dial 9-1-1 when immediate emergency services are necessary.
While reporting information, please remember to provide as many details as possible. Such as precise descriptions of individuals involved, including their physical appearance, clothing and any distinguishing features. Additionally, note any vehicles, license plates or other details related to the incident. The more you provide, the better equipped we are to protect you effectively.
I understand reporting crime or suspicious activity may cause concern or apprehension, especially if you fear repercussions. Your safety is our priority. I encourage you to utilize all our anonymous reporting options available to you, such as contacting Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477). You can also submit a tip online through the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office app. I can assure that your contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a significant impact to collectively keep our community safe.
Together, we can make a difference. I am grateful for your support and vigilance, and I encourage you to continue promptly reporting any crime or suspicious activity. By doing so, you are helping our law enforcement agency take meaningful steps toward ensuring our community is safe and secure.
Be Safe, Be Kind, God Bless.
Sheriff James Potter