CRS Frequently Asked Questions

What crimes DO qualify for CRS?
What crimes DO NOT qualify for CRS?
Why can’t I use on-line reporting for all crimes?
Can I use CRS to report a hit and run crash?
How long will it take to process my report?
Can I get a copy of the report?
Can I report a crime that occurred outside Montgomery County?
What is the purpose of filing a report with CRS?
If I know who committed the crime, can I still use CRS?
What if my incident does not qualify for CRS?
Are there specific computer requirements to use the CRS?

What crimes DO qualify for CRS?

Please use the on-line reporting service for the following crimes:

• Identity Theft
• Lost Property
• Theft
• Theft from Vehicle
• Vandalism
• Vandalism/Tampering vehicle

What crimes do not qualify for CRS?

CRS is NOT appropriate for the following crimes:

• Incidents with suspects
• Incidents occurring within past 30 minutes
• Violent crimes, completed or attempted
• Sex crimes, completed or attempted
• Theft or loss of a firearm
• Stolen vehicles, completed or attempted
• Stolen license plate
• Breaking and entering your home or business, completed or attempted
• Crimes committed due to race, religion, ethnic or national origin, disability and/or sexual orientation
• Accident Reports
• Lost or Stolen Passports
• Returned/uncollectable checks

What if my incident does not qualify for CRS?

If your incident isn’t eligible for online reporting or if you would like to speak directly to a Department employee, call the Montgomery County Police Department’s non-emergency number, 301-240-5330. You may also go to any one of our six District Stations to make a report in person.

Why can’t I use on-line reporting for all crimes?

Some crimes may require evidence collection, photography, or other investigative procedure which require an officer to respond to the scene of the crime.

Can I use CRS to report a hit and run crash?

• If the hit and run crash involves injuries, call 911
• If no injuries, call police non emergency number, 301-279-8000

How long will it take to process my report?

Normally, within 72 hours

Can I get a copy of the report?

You will be able to print a temporary copy of your report immediately. An official copy of your report may be obtained by mail or in person. Please call 240-773-5340 or visit our website for additional information on obtaining police records.

Can I report a crime that happened outside Montgomery County?

No, your crime or incident must have occurred in Montgomery County . If the incident happened outside Montgomery County, file a report in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred.

What is the purpose of filing a report with CRS?

• Primarily for insurance and police information purposes
• The case will be reviewed for investigation
• Assists in preventing future crimes by providing statistics on trends, locations and times of violations.
• May assist in the identification and return of stolen property recovered as the result of other investigations

If I know who committed the crime, can I still use CRS?

No, reports with suspect offenders must be made with a police officer.

Are there specific computer requirements to use CRS?

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