How to File DPD Non-Emergency Report Dallas App

The Dallas Police Department (DPD) offers a streamlined digital solution for residents to report non-emergency incidents through its official mobile application and online portal. This system empowers citizens to contribute to community safety without tying up emergency response lines, ensuring that 911 remains available for life-threatening situations. Understanding how to file a DPD non-emergency report using the official Dallas app is not just a convenience—it’s a civic responsibility that enhances public safety efficiency, reduces response delays, and strengthens the partnership between law enforcement and the community.

Non-emergency reports cover a wide range of incidents, including property damage, lost or found items, petty theft, noise complaints, suspicious activity, and vandalism. By using the DPD digital reporting tool, residents can submit detailed reports 24/7, receive instant confirmation, and track the status of their submission—all without needing to visit a police station or wait on hold. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of the entire process, along with best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions to ensure you can file accurate, effective reports every time.

Step-by-Step Guide

Filing a non-emergency report through the Dallas Police Department’s digital platform is designed to be intuitive and accessible. Whether you’re using the official DPD mobile app or the web-based portal, the process follows a consistent structure. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step to ensure accuracy and completeness.

1. Confirm the Incident Qualifies as Non-Emergency

Before initiating a report, determine whether your situation qualifies as non-emergency. Emergency situations—such as ongoing crimes, threats to life, active burglaries, or medical crises—require immediate 911 intervention. Non-emergency incidents typically include:

• Stolen property (e.g., bike, phone, wallet) with no suspect in sight
• Property damage from accidents or vandalism
• Lost pets or found items
• Noise disturbances after hours
• Suspicious persons or vehicles observed but not currently engaged in illegal activity
• Minor traffic accidents with no injuries
• Harassment or threatening messages received via phone or social media

If you are uncertain, err on the side of caution. When in doubt, call 911. Misclassifying an emergency as non-emergency can delay critical response times.

2. Access the Official Reporting Platform

The DPD non-emergency reporting system is accessible through two primary channels: the official mobile application and the web portal.

Mobile App: Download the “Dallas Police Department” app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Search for “Dallas Police” and ensure the developer is listed as “City of Dallas.” Avoid third-party apps with similar names. Once installed, open the app and tap “Report a Non-Emergency.”

Web Portal: Visit https://www.dallaspolice.net/nonemergency in any modern browser. The site is optimized for desktop and mobile use. Click “Start a Report” to proceed.

Both platforms require a valid email address to create a secure account. If you already have an account from a previous report, log in using your credentials. If not, select “Create New Account” and provide your full name, email, and a strong password. Your information is encrypted and stored securely in compliance with state and federal privacy regulations.

3. Select the Report Type

After logging in, you will be presented with a categorized list of report types. Choose the option that best matches your incident. Common categories include:

• Theft (Personal Property)
• Theft (Vehicle)
• Vandalism
• Damage to Property
• Lost Property
• Found Property
• Suspicious Activity
• Noise Complaint
• Harassment (Non-Violent)
• Traffic Incident (No Injury)

Selecting the correct category ensures your report is routed to the appropriate division for review and follow-up. If your incident doesn’t fit neatly into one category, choose the closest match and describe the details in the narrative section.

4. Enter Incident Details

Once you’ve selected the report type, you will be prompted to enter specific details about the incident. This section is critical for accuracy and investigative effectiveness.

Date and Time: Provide the exact date and approximate time the incident occurred. If unsure, estimate as closely as possible. The system allows you to select from a calendar and time picker.

Location: Enter the precise address where the incident took place. Use the built-in map tool to drop a pin if you’re unsure of the exact address. The app will auto-fill nearby intersections and landmarks. For incidents on public property (e.g., parks, streets), describe the nearest cross street or notable landmark.

Description: This is your narrative field. Write clearly and concisely. Include:

• What happened
• How it happened
• Any individuals involved (describe appearance, clothing, vehicle make/model/license plate if known)
• Whether surveillance cameras or witnesses are present
• Any prior incidents at the same location

Example: “On April 12, 2024, at approximately 2:30 a.m., I discovered my front porch light was broken and a package I received via FedEx was missing. The package was labeled ‘John Smith, 123 Oak St.’ I checked my delivery notification and confirmed it was delivered that day. There were no known suspects, but I noticed a dark SUV parked across the street with tinted windows.”

Be factual. Avoid assumptions, emotional language, or speculation. Stick to observable facts.

5. Upload Supporting Evidence

One of the most powerful features of the DPD app is the ability to upload digital evidence. You may attach:

• Photographs of damage, stolen items, or suspicious vehicles
• Video clips (up to 30 seconds, under 50 MB)
• Text message screenshots
• Delivery confirmation receipts
• Security camera stills

Ensure images are clear and well-lit. Avoid blurry or zoomed-in photos that obscure key details. If you have multiple pieces of evidence, upload them one at a time. The system supports JPG, PNG, MP4, and MOV formats.

Do not upload sensitive personal documents such as IDs, credit cards, or bank statements. These are unnecessary and pose a privacy risk.

6. Review and Submit

Before submitting, carefully review all entered information. The system will highlight any missing fields or inconsistencies. Confirm:

• All dates and times are accurate
• The location pin is correct
• Uploads are relevant and clear
• Your contact information is up to date

Once verified, click “Submit Report.” You will receive an on-screen confirmation and an email with a unique case reference number. This number is your official tracking ID and should be saved for future reference. Do not delete the confirmation email.

7. Track Your Report Status

After submission, you can monitor the status of your report through the app or web portal. Log in and navigate to “My Reports.” Each report will display its current status:

• Submitted: Report received, under review
• Under Investigation: Assigned to an officer or analyst
• Closed – No Further Action: Insufficient evidence or outside jurisdiction
• Closed – Action Taken: Officer responded or case referred

Updates are typically posted within 3–5 business days. You will receive email notifications when the status changes. If you need to add new information after submission, use the “Add Note” function within your report dashboard.

Best Practices

Maximizing the effectiveness of your non-emergency report requires more than just following the steps—it demands thoughtful preparation and adherence to best practices. These guidelines ensure your report is processed efficiently and contributes meaningfully to public safety efforts.

Be Prompt

File your report as soon as possible after the incident. Delays reduce the likelihood of recovering stolen items, identifying suspects, or collecting forensic evidence. Evidence such as surveillance footage, tire tracks, or fingerprints may be lost or overwritten within hours or days.

Use Precise Language

Vague descriptions like “someone was acting weird” or “it looked stolen” hinder investigations. Instead, use specific, observable details: “A male, approximately 5’10”, wearing a black hoodie and gray jeans, was walking slowly past houses and checking door handles between 9:15 and 9:45 p.m.”

Document Everything

Even if you think something is insignificant, document it. A partial license plate, a unique tattoo, a distinctive vehicle bumper sticker, or a specific brand of shoe can be the critical clue that leads to resolution. Keep a written log of all details while they are fresh in your memory.

Do Not Share Personal Information Publicly

Never post photos, addresses, or case numbers on social media. Doing so can compromise investigations, alert suspects, or expose you to identity theft. Only share your case number with authorized DPD personnel.

Update Your Report if New Information Arises

If you later recall additional details—such as a suspect’s voice, a vehicle’s direction of travel, or a new witness—log in and use the “Add Note” feature. Do not file a new report. Multiple reports for the same incident create confusion and duplicate work for investigators.

Know Your Jurisdiction

The DPD app only accepts reports for incidents occurring within the City of Dallas city limits. If your incident occurred in a neighboring municipality (e.g., Irving, Garland, Plano), you must file with that jurisdiction’s police department. Use the DPD website’s jurisdiction map to confirm your location.

Use Wi-Fi When Uploading Media

Large files (especially videos) consume significant mobile data. To avoid data overages and ensure smooth uploads, connect to a secure Wi-Fi network before submitting your report.

Verify Your Contact Information

Ensure your email and phone number are current in your profile. DPD may contact you for clarification or to provide updates. Outdated contact details can result in missed communications and stalled investigations.

Tools and Resources

Successfully filing a DPD non-emergency report is enhanced by leveraging the right tools and supplementary resources. These tools help you prepare, document, and follow up with greater efficiency.

Official DPD Non-Emergency Portal

The primary tool is the official reporting platform at https://www.dallaspolice.net/nonemergency. This secure portal is maintained by the City of Dallas and integrates directly with the DPD case management system. It is the only authorized channel for digital non-emergency reporting.

Dallas Police Department Mobile App

Available on iOS and Android, the official app offers push notifications, offline form drafting, GPS location tagging, and one-tap photo uploads. It is regularly updated with new features and security enhancements. Always keep the app updated to the latest version.

Location Mapping Tools

If you’re unsure of your exact address, use Google Maps or Apple Maps to pinpoint your location. Take a screenshot of the map showing your location with the address displayed. You can upload this as evidence to support your report.

Photo and Video Editing Apps

Use free apps like Snapseed (iOS/Android) or Canva to crop, brighten, or enhance images before uploading. Adjusting contrast or sharpening can reveal details not visible in the original photo. Avoid filters that alter colors or obscure identifying features.

Incident Log Templates

Download a free incident log template from the DPD community resources page. These templates help you organize key details before entering them into the report form. They include fields for date, time, location, description, witnesses, and evidence.

Neighborhood Watch Networks

Join your local neighborhood watch group via the City of Dallas Neighborhood Watch portal. These groups often share alerts, surveillance footage, and tips that can help you identify patterns or provide context for your report. Many residents report that collaboration with neighbors leads to faster resolutions.

Public Records Request Portal

If your report leads to an official investigation, you may request case updates or incident reports under the Texas Public Information Act. Use the City of Dallas Public Records Request portal to formally request documents related to your case. This is especially useful if insurance claims or legal matters arise.

DPD Community Outreach Programs

Attend free community safety workshops hosted by DPD. These sessions, often held at libraries and community centers, teach residents how to document incidents, use security technology, and interact effectively with law enforcement. Registration is available on the DPD website under “Community Engagement.”

Real Examples

Real-life examples illustrate how the DPD non-emergency reporting system works in practice and highlight the impact of accurate, well-documented reports.

Example 1: Stolen Package

A resident in East Dallas noticed a missing delivery on her porch. She immediately used the DPD app to file a report. She uploaded a photo of the empty porch, the delivery notification from FedEx, and a screenshot of her Amazon order. She included the exact time the delivery was marked as “delivered” and noted that a dark sedan had been parked nearby the previous day.

Within 48 hours, the DPD detective unit reviewed the report and cross-referenced it with surveillance footage from a neighbor’s doorbell camera. The footage showed a person in a hoodie taking the package. The license plate of the sedan was partially visible. The detective matched the plate to a known individual with prior theft charges. The package was recovered, and charges were filed.

Key takeaway: Precise timing, photographic evidence, and contextual details led to a swift resolution.

Example 2: Vandalism to Vehicle

A Dallas student returned to his parked car to find the driver’s side window smashed and the interior ransacked. He used the app to file a report, attaching three photos: the broken glass, a missing Bluetooth speaker, and a broken phone charger. He noted the time he last saw the car (8 p.m.) and when he discovered the damage (11:30 p.m.). He also mentioned that he’d seen a group of teens loitering near the parking lot earlier that evening.

The report was routed to the patrol unit assigned to that precinct. Officers reviewed the area’s security cameras and identified three individuals matching the description. Two were arrested the following day based on the evidence provided.

Key takeaway: Photographs of stolen items and witness observations significantly increased the likelihood of apprehension.

Example 3: Suspicious Activity Near School

A parent reported a man loitering near a local elementary school during drop-off hours, taking photos of children. She used the app to file a non-emergency report, uploading a video clip she recorded from her phone (with the child’s face blurred). She included the time, location, clothing description, and vehicle type (silver Honda, Texas plate ending in 789).

DPD’s Community Liaison Unit reviewed the report and deployed an undercover officer to the area. The individual was observed again the next day and approached. He was found to have no criminal record but was issued a trespass warning and advised to avoid school zones. The parent received a follow-up call from a DPD outreach officer thanking her for her vigilance.

Key takeaway: Even non-criminal behavior that raises safety concerns is valuable to report. Early intervention prevents escalation.

Example 4: Lost Pet

A family in South Dallas lost their 3-year-old golden retriever. They filed a “Found Property” report (since the dog was unclaimed), uploaded a clear photo, and provided the dog’s microchip number and last known location. The report was shared automatically with local animal control and nearby shelters.

Two days later, a neighbor reported seeing the dog near a park. The DPD database matched the microchip number to the report. The dog was returned safely. The family later received a thank-you note from DPD for providing complete, accurate information.

Key takeaway: Lost pets are treated as property reports. Detailed descriptions and microchip data are essential for reunification.

FAQs

Can I file a report anonymously?

No. The DPD non-emergency reporting system requires a valid email and contact information to ensure accountability and allow follow-up. Anonymous reports cannot be tracked or verified, and officers cannot contact you for clarification. Your information is confidential and protected under privacy laws.

What if I made a mistake in my report?

If you notice an error after submission, log in to your account and open the report. Click “Add Note” to correct or clarify the information. Do not file a duplicate report. Officers review all notes and updates associated with a case.

How long does it take to get a response?

Non-emergency reports are reviewed within 3–5 business days. If your case requires an officer response, you will be contacted by phone or email. High-volume periods (e.g., holidays, major events) may cause slight delays.

Can I report a crime that happened outside Dallas?

No. The DPD app only accepts reports for incidents occurring within the official city limits of Dallas. For incidents in surrounding cities, visit the respective police department’s website to file a report locally.

Will I be contacted if the case is solved?

Yes. If your report leads to an arrest, recovery of property, or other resolution, you will receive a notification via email or phone call. You may also update your communication preferences in your account settings.

Do I need to file a police report for insurance?

Many insurance providers require a police report number to process claims for theft, vandalism, or hit-and-run incidents. The case number generated by the DPD system serves as official documentation. Save this number and provide it to your insurer.

Is there a limit to how many reports I can file?

There is no set limit. Residents are encouraged to report every qualifying incident. However, repeated reports for the same location or individual without new evidence may be reviewed for potential misuse.

Can I report cybercrime through this app?

Yes. The DPD app accepts reports for online harassment, phishing attempts, identity theft, and fraudulent transactions if they originated within Dallas. Attach screenshots of messages, emails, or transaction records. For large-scale cybercrimes, DPD may refer your case to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

What if I don’t have a smartphone?

You can still file a non-emergency report using any computer or tablet with internet access. Visit the web portal at https://www.dallaspolice.net/nonemergency. The site is fully responsive and works on all modern browsers.

Can I file a report for someone else?

Yes, if you witnessed the incident or have direct knowledge of it. You must provide your own contact information as the reporting party. Do not file reports for others without their consent unless you are a legal guardian or have a legitimate reason to act on their behalf.

Conclusion

Filing a DPD non-emergency report through the official Dallas app is more than a bureaucratic task—it is a powerful act of civic engagement. By taking a few minutes to accurately document an incident, you help law enforcement allocate resources efficiently, prevent future crimes, and foster a safer environment for everyone in the community. The system is designed to be user-friendly, secure, and effective, but its success depends on the diligence and clarity of the individuals who use it.

Remember: every report matters. Whether it’s a stolen package, a suspicious vehicle, or a broken streetlight, your input provides valuable data that informs patrols, identifies hotspots, and supports long-term crime prevention strategies. Use the tools provided, follow best practices, and never underestimate the impact of your report.

Stay informed, stay vigilant, and take action. The Dallas Police Department relies on the community not just as observers—but as partners in public safety. File your report today, and be part of the solution.