Reporting Bailiff Crime to the Police

The most effective method for reporting to your local police force is through their online portal. Take your time to detail the specifics of the incident and describe the suspect.

If anyone is facing immediate danger or has been assaulted, contact the police immediately by dialing 999.

Reporting a crime via telephone using the non-emergency number 101 can be frustrating, as police call handlers often state bailiff-related crime is a civil matter and may be reluctant to record your complaint.

If fraud is suspected, it is advisable to report the crime to Action Fraud, a service managed by a private company on behalf of the City of London Police.

Types of bailiff-related crime

Property damage

Physical assault

Fraudulent activity or misappropriation of funds or property

Possession of a document falsely claiming to be a warrant

Unauthorised entry or breaking and entering

Trading as a bailiff (enforcement agent) without a valid certificate

Misrepresentation of identity as a police officer through police-like attire or equipment

Director's responsibility for crimes committed by company staff

Collect the following details regarding the crime:

Date and time of the offence

Name and contact details of the reporting police officer or department

Name of the law enforcement agency involved

Location of the offence

Description of the offence

Any financial or other losses incurred

Information about injuries sustained or assaults involved

Details of the bailiff, including name and contact information

Physical description and attire of the bailiff

Items or money taken, and whether unauthorised entry occurred

Documentation, videos, or paperwork supporting the incident

Relevant documents related to the bailiff and their enforcement authority

All applicable legislation breached

Document all the occurrences leading to and encompassing the offence promptly while the details are vivid. Avoid relying solely on memory. Arrange your written narrative chronologically, with each event described in a separate paragraph, using your own language and narrating in the first person. This account will serve as the foundation for your police witness statement.

If a police officer dismisses your complaint or shows reluctance towards an investigation, make a note of the officer's or call-handler's name as they could potentially be involved in an offense themselves.