But most people who have had their bicycles stolen or their property damaged or who have lost a credit card haven’t turned to the Internet to notify police of the crimes.

That’s why Tacoma police have begun a campaign to alert the public to the free self-service option on their Web site.

Residents can file reports concerning certain crimes on their own time and don’t have to tie up dispatchers and police officers for low-level incidents. They’re given a case number to give to their insurance companies so claims can be processed.

“This is a convenience for citizens,” police Lt. Corey Darlington said. Plus, “it allows citizens to use it for low-priority crimes so that officers can focus on higher-priority crimes.”

The publicizing effort includes a “Behind the Shield” television episode slated to air throughout December, and index-sized cards given to police officers and community members explaining the process.

In addition, volunteers will be trained at the department’s five substations so they can help residents who don’t have computers to file reports.

In 2007, 171 police reports were filed with Tacoma police online and 11 with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. Through the end of the September, 150 have been logged with Tacoma police and 60 with the Sheriff’s Department.

WHAT IT IS: Created by the Law Enforcement Support Agency and other law enforcement agencies in 2006, the online program allows crime victims to report low-level incidents to police without involving an officer.

WHO OFFERS IT: Tacoma Police Department (www.tacomapolice.org), Pierce County Sheriff’s Department (www.piercesheriff.org) and Sumner Police Department (www.ci.sumner.wa.us/Government/Police/PoliceDept.htm).

WHAT CAN BE REPORTED: Misdemeanor crimes in which there is no suspect information, no witnesses and no evidence left by the criminal. Police officials say you should call 911 to report an emergency or a crime that is in progress.

REPORTABLE CRIMES: Vandalism; destruction of property; lost property except guns, passports and military identification cards; and stolen property or low-level thefts except of vehicles, license plates or guns.

HOW IT WORKS: Go to the appropriate agency’s Web site and fill out and submit the online report. You must have a valid e-mail address or mailing address for the report to be accepted. After police review and approve the report, a case number is sent to you via e-mail or regular mail.

COST: None.

Stacey Mulick: 253-597-8268

blogs.thenewstribune.com/crime