Local Police Department

If you are being threatened with physical violence or harassed for exercising your First Amendment rights—such as freedom of speech, assembly, expression, or religion—it is critical to contact your local police department first. Law enforcement is responsible for maintaining public safety and ensuring that all individuals can express themselves freely without fear of harm or intimidation. By reporting threats or harassment promptly, you not only protect your own safety but also allow authorities to intervene before the situation escalates. Police can investigate the threat, document the incident, and, if necessary, take legal action to prevent further harm or intimidation.

Additionally, contacting the police creates an official record of the threat or harassment, which can be crucial if legal proceedings follow. This documentation helps establish a timeline of events and supports the victim's credibility in court, should charges be filed or protective orders sought. It also sends a clear message that threats and harassment are taken seriously and will not be tolerated in a society that values constitutional rights and freedoms. Engaging with law enforcement is an essential first step in asserting one's rights while ensuring safety and legal protection.

In cases where there is an immediate threat to personal safety or someone is in danger, call 911 immediately. 

To contact your local police department, you should call the non-emergency number listed for your local law enforcement agency if the situation is not immediately dangerous but still needs to be reported.

It's essential to provide clear and accurate information, including:

• the nature of the threat or harassment
• when and where it occurred
• any identifying details about the individuals involved

If possible, preserve any evidence, such as:

• messages (written or text)
• emails
• video recordings
• Screen shots
• to share with the responding officers.

Visiting the local police station in person is also an option if the threat is not urgent but still needs official documentation and follow-up.