Beginning Aug. 1, residents reporting certain incidents such as minor thefts, vehicle burglaries and crime tips will be able to complete a police report on a personal computer or a computer that will be available in the Police Department lobby, city officials said.
Police expect the service to be popular, as residents will not have to wait for officers to respond in person or by phone in order to file a report, city officials said.
Residents will also be able to print a temporary copy of completed reports. Police officials will review and approve reports and the reporting party will then receive a free e-mail copy with the approved report attached.
Police will investigate reports filed online in the same way as those filed by an officer but will have more time for other community needs, according to the city.
The city's crime reporting service will be available beginning in August at www.ci.benicia.ca.us/police under the "Report a Crime" link.
