Verbal or Written Threats

Verbal Threats

1. If you witness or overhear a verbal threat advocating violence towards another person, treat this incident as a Crime in Process.
2. Do not attempt to apprehend or interfere with the criminal except in the case of self-protection.
3. If safe to do so, stop and take time to get a good description of the criminal. “Be a Good Witness.” Note height, weight, sex, race, approximate age, clothing, method and direction of travel, and his/her name if known. All this takes only a few seconds and is of the utmost help to the investigating officers. If the criminal is entering a vehicle, note the license plate number, make, model, color, and any outstanding characteristics of the vehicle.
4. Call the Sheriff’s Department at #3 or (323) 953-2911. Give your name, location, and department. Advise the dispatcher of the situation and stay on the line until told to do otherwise. Remain where you are until contacted by an officer.

Written Threats

1. A written threat can be anything from a note passed in class, a statement written on a chalkboard, or an email or text message.
2. If a written threat is received, call the Sheriff’s Department at #3 or (323) 953-2911. Give your name, location, and department. Advise the dispatcher of the situation and the nature of the threat. Provide details such as if the person who passed/uttered the threat is known or present and if the intended target is known or present.