Imagine the following situation: you are committing a crime, and while doing so, you witness someone else commit a crime or have a crime committed against you. Perhaps the crime you witnessed or were the victim of was far more serious than the crime you committed. In such a situation, what should you do? Report the crime, or stay silent?
Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question. Rather, it depends on the specific circumstances. The decision of whether to report a crime to police is always a personal decision dependent on the situation. This is even more so the case where you were also committing a crime.
The first question to ask is whether the crime you witnessed or were the victim of has caused you to fear for you safety or the safety of someone else. If so, you may wish to report the crime regardless of what the consequences for yourself may be.
The second question to ask is what crime you were committing. For example, if you were simply in possession of a controlled substance for personal use, the police or prosecutors will often use their discretion and elect not to charge you or proceed with the charges laid against you. In such situations, the possibility of facing legal consequences for your own offending behaviour will pose less of a deterrent in going to the police.
There may also be a way for you to report the crime to the police without disclosing the crime you committed. You could leave out details that would expose your own behaviour, or you could make an anonymous tip to police.
If you have criminal charges, our experienced team of criminal defence lawyers at Collett Read LLP is here to assist you. We will thoroughly examine the specifics of your case, review the evidence presented by the Crown, and vigorously advocate on your behalf. Our goal is to ensure a fair and just legal process while protecting your rights every step of the way.
Contact us today at 905-541-2228 or fill out our intake form for a free consultation.
