Victims of crime often provide important evidence that help police charge the accused person and prevent them from committing the crime again. If you're the victim or witness of a crime, the police will ask you to make a detailed statement about what happened.

Making your statement

You may be asked to make a statement when you report the crime, or at a later date. Legally, you do not have to make a statement or answer questions, but it will help police to investigate the crime.

Tell the police, in your own words, everything that you remember about what happened. Sometimes the questions police must ask may be difficult or embarrassing to answer. Try not to leave anything out, even if you don't think it is important.

When you report the crime, you may be in shock and might not be able to remember everything that happened. If you remember something days or weeks later, write it down. Contact the police and tell them, no matter how small it is. It could be important to the case.

How your statement is used

The police keep a record of your statement. If the case goes to court, a copy of your statement is given to the accused person's lawyer. Later, if you are asked to give evidence, you will be given a copy of your statement to refresh your memory.