How to Report Crimes or Seek Help as a Foreigner in New Hampshire
If you are a foreign national in New Hampshire and need to report a crime or seek emergency help, dial 911 immediately. For non-emergencies, contact the local police department or seek assistance from your country's consulate.
Emergency Numbers and Immediate Response
In any life-threatening situation, crime in progress, fire, or serious medical emergency, your first action should be to call 911. This is the universal, toll-free emergency number across the United States.
When Calling 911
Stay calm. Clearly state your location (address, city, landmarks). Explain the nature of the emergency. Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to. If you do not speak English, say the name of your language (e.g., "Spanish") and an interpreter will be connected.
Non-Emergency Crime Reporting
For crimes that are not in progress and where there is no immediate danger, contact the local police department directly. Police services in New Hampshire are organized at the city or town level.
| Service Type | Contact Method | Typical Response Time | Primary Use Case | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Police (Non-Emergency) | Phone, In-Person Visit | Varies by jurisdiction | Theft report, lost property, vandalism | Find the number for the specific town where the incident occurred. |
| County Sheriff | Phone | Varies | Issues in unincorporated areas, court-related matters | Primarily serves counties and operates jails. |
| State Police | Phone (Non-Emergency Line) | Varies | Highway incidents, major crimes, assisting local police | Can be contacted for incidents on state highways. |
Understanding Police Jurisdiction
New Hampshire has multiple law enforcement agencies. Knowing which one to contact can expedite help.
Local Police Departments
Have primary jurisdiction within their specific city or town limits (e.g., Manchester Police, Portsmouth Police). Start here for most local crimes.
New Hampshire State Police
Jurisdiction covers the entire state, with a focus on interstate highways (like I-93, I-95) and state roads. They also investigate major crimes and support local agencies.
Federal Agencies (FBI, ICE, Secret Service)
Handle federal crimes such as interstate criminal activity, terrorism, bank robbery, major fraud, and immigration offenses. You can contact their local field offices.
The Crime Reporting Process
Step 1: Initial Contact
Call 911 (emergency) or the local non-emergency number. Provide clear, factual information.
Step 2: Interaction with Officers
Officers will arrive (for emergencies) or you may be asked to come to the station. Answer questions honestly. You have the right to an interpreter.
Step 3: Filing the Report
A formal report will be created. Ask for a copy or the case number for your records and for insurance/consular purposes.
Step 4: Follow-Up and Investigation
An officer or detective may contact you for more information. You can also call the department's records division for updates on your case.
Consular Assistance and Embassy Contact
Your home country's embassy or consulate in the U.S. is a vital resource. They cannot investigate crimes or provide legal counsel, but they can offer crucial support.
How Consulates Can Help
They can contact your family, provide lists of local attorneys who speak your language, help you understand the U.S. legal system, and facilitate communication with authorities if you face a language barrier.
How to Find Your Consulate
Search online for "[Your Country] embassy United States" or "[Your Country] consulate Boston/New York". Many countries have an embassy in Washington D.C. and consulates in major cities like Boston, which covers New Hampshire.
Legal Support and Victim Services
| Service | Provider | Cost | Purpose | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Attorney | Law Firms & Individual Lawyers | Fee-based (varies) | Full legal representation | Search via state bar association or consulate list. |
| Victim/Witness Advocates | County Attorney's Office | Free | Support for victims of violent crime | Ask the investigating officer or prosecutor to connect you. |
| NH Victims' Compensation Program | NH Department of Justice | Application-based state aid | Help pay for expenses from violent crime | Contact the program directly or through an advocate. |
Note on False Reports: Knowingly making a false report to law enforcement is a crime. Penalties under New Hampshire RSA 641:4 may include substantial fines and potential imprisonment. Always be truthful.
Language and Communication Help
911 Translation Services
911 call centers have access to professional telephonic interpretation for over 200 languages. Simply say the name of your language when connected.
Police Department Resources
Larger departments may have bilingual officers or use video/phone interpretation tools during in-person interactions. You have a right to understand and be understood.
Preparing a Phrase Card
Before traveling, write key phrases in English on a card: "I need help," "I need an interpreter for [Your Language]," "Call my consulate," and your passport number.
Traffic Violations and Accidents
Traffic Stops
If pulled over by police, remain calm. Pull over safely. Keep your hands visible. Provide your driver's license, rental agreement, and proof of insurance when asked. You can show your International Driving Permit along with your home country license.
Reporting an Accident
For accidents with injuries or significant damage, call 911. For minor accidents with no injuries, move vehicles to a safe location and exchange information with the other driver. You are legally required to file a crash report with the NH Division of Motor Vehicles if there is injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
Pre-Travel Preparation Checklist
Before You Go:
- Save the address and 24-hour phone number of your home country's nearest consulate or embassy in your phone and on paper.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for legal assistance and emergency evacuation.
- Make photocopies or digital scans of your passport, visa, and driver's license. Keep them separate from the originals.
Upon Arrival in New Hampshire:
- Identify the local police non-emergency number for the areas you will be staying in and save it in your phone.
- Share your itinerary and contact details with a trusted friend or family member back home.
- Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the emergency number in New Hampshire?
A. The universal emergency number for police, fire, and medical emergencies in the United States, including New Hampshire, is 911. Call this number for any life-threatening situation or crime in progress.
What should I do if I'm a victim of a crime but it's not an emergency?
A. For non-emergency situations, contact the local police department of the city or town where the incident occurred. You can find their non-emergency number online or through directory assistance. You can also visit the police station in person to file a report.
Can I report a crime if I don't speak English well?
A. Yes. When you call 911, you can state the language you need (e.g., 'Spanish' or 'Mandarin'). The dispatcher will connect you to a translation service. Many larger police departments also have access to interpreters or multilingual officers.
What information should I have ready when reporting a crime?
A. Be prepared to provide: your location (exact address or cross streets), the nature of the emergency, descriptions of any people or vehicles involved, your name and contact information, and your passport number or other ID.
What if I need consular assistance from my home country?
A. Contact your country's embassy or consulate in the United States. They can provide assistance including: contacting family, providing a list of local attorneys, explaining local legal procedures, and, in some cases, facilitating communication with local authorities.
Are there crimes I should specifically report to federal agencies?
A. Yes, certain crimes fall under federal jurisdiction. You can contact the local FBI field office for crimes like significant fraud, cybercrime, hate crimes, or kidnapping. For immigration-related crimes, you may contact U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
What legal help is available to foreign crime victims?
A. You have the right to hire a private attorney. For victims of violent crime, New Hampshire's Victim/Witness Assistance Program may provide free advocacy, information about case status, and help with applying for victim compensation funds. Contact the County Attorney's Office where the case is being handled.
What are the penalties for making a false police report?
A. Filing a false police report is a serious crime. Penalties under New Hampshire law (RSA 641:4) may include substantial fines and potential imprisonment.
Official Resources and Links
- New Hampshire State Police: Official Website
- New Hampshire Department of Justice - Victims' Compensation: Program Information
- U.S. Department of State - Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate: Embassy Finder (for foreign nationals to find their own consulate)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Boston Field Office (covers NH): Contact Information
- New Hampshire Legal Aid: Free and low-cost legal information
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and procedures can change. In any legal or emergency situation, you should contact the appropriate authorities or a qualified legal professional. The author and publisher are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information herein. Refer to official government sources for the most current information, such as the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA).