What happens if you don't report a crime?

[duvetdaisy]

Hi, I really hope someone can offer me some advice, I have name changed for obvious reasons.

If you find out that a crime is going to be committed but you don't report it to the police because you are scared about the implications, what happens if they find out that you knew about it?

It depends.

If you're in a profession that requires you to report certain crimes (teachers and child abuse, etc) then there could be legal and professional consequences if you don't.

If the crime is terrorism, money laundering, or a road traffic accident, you might be committing a criminal offence by not reporting it.

If the crime was theft and you use the money or property that the criminal brings home, you might be guilty of theft or similar offences.

If they do find out that you knew, they can summon you to court and compel you to testify (this is limited if the defendant is your spouse).

That's not to mention the moral obligation some people think would say you have to report crimes so that criminals can be caught and punished. You can report crimes anonymously to Crimestoppers online or by phone.