How Do I Report a Person with a Warrant?

A warrant can be issued for someone's arrest if she fails to appear for a court hearing or pay a court-mandated fine. Warrants also can be issued for reported crimes when the perpetrator is identified but not located. You can turn in someone you know who has an outstanding warrant.

Identification

• Be certain that the person you are turning in for a warrant is indeed the correct individual for whom the warrant has been issued. When possible, obtain the person's full name and date of birth. This will help to prevent any incidents of mistaken identify.

Confirming a Warrant

• Warrants are public records. In fact, law enforcement relies on the public to help identify and locate people with warrants. You can contact your local police department to ask for a warrant list. Some departments are now posting this information online. You may have to go to the police department or courthouse in person to obtain the information you need.

Notification

• When you have decided to turn in a person with a warrant contact your local police department. You do not need to call 9-1-1 unless you or someone else is in imminent danger. This is not the case with most warrants. Either call the police on a non-emergency number, which is typically listed in the phone book, or go in person to the police department. The police will want to know where the person with the warrant is residing and whether you know of any guns or other weapons in the home.