Contact Authorities: Reporting Procedures
Step-by-step guidance for reporting a missing person, including essential information to provide and critical contacts for different types of cases.
Step-by-Step Reporting Process
Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure proper reporting and maximize recovery efforts
Call Local Law Enforcement Immediately
URGENTContact your local police department or sheriff's office. There is NO waiting period to report a missing person, especially a child.
Key Actions:
- Request immediate entry into NCIC Missing Persons File
- Provide detailed physical description and circumstances
- Share recent photographs and any medical information
- Mention any mental health conditions or medications
Crisis Mental Health Support (Immediate)
URGENTContact mental health crisis support for immediate psychological assistance during this traumatic time. Integrated with Thoughtful.fit crisis intervention.
Key Actions:
- 24/7 crisis intervention and emotional support
- Trauma-informed care for families in crisis
- Specialized support for missing persons families
- Connection to ongoing mental health resources
Contact NCMEC (For Missing Children)
URGENTThe National Center for Missing & Exploited Children provides critical support and resources for child cases.
Key Actions:
- Available 24/7 for missing children cases
- Assists with photo distribution and media outreach
- Provides specialized search and recovery resources
- Coordinates with law enforcement agencies nationwide
Report Online Activity (If Applicable)
If the disappearance involves online enticement, exploitation, or cybercrime, file additional reports.
Key Actions:
- Document all online communications and social media activity
- Preserve digital evidence including screenshots and messages
- Report suspected online predators or sextortion attempts
- Provide device information and account details
Submit Case to NamUs Database
The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System provides a centralized database accessible nationwide.
Key Actions:
- Free database for missing persons information
- Accessible to law enforcement and medical examiners
- Provides forensic services including DNA analysis
- Cross-references with unidentified remains cases
Essential Information Checklist
Prepare this information in advance to save precious time during reporting
Personal Information
- Full legal name and any nicknames or aliases
- Date of birth and Social Security number
- Physical description: height, weight, hair/eye color
- Distinguishing marks: scars, tattoos, birthmarks, piercings
- Recent, clear photographs (digital copies preferred)
Circumstances
- Date, time, and location last seen
- Clothing worn when last seen
- Who they were with and what they were doing
- Their state of mind and any recent behavioral changes
- Known travel plans or destinations
Medical Information
- Medical conditions requiring medication (diabetes, epilepsy)
- Mental health conditions or cognitive impairments
- Prescription medications and dosages
- Any physical disabilities or mobility limitations
- Recent medical or dental visits
Digital Footprint
- Cell phone number and carrier information
- Social media accounts and usernames
- Email addresses and online gaming accounts
- Vehicle information: make, model, color, license plate
- Credit cards, bank accounts, or financial information
Mental Health & Trauma Support
Comprehensive mental health resources integrated with Thoughtful.fit for ongoing trauma recovery and family support
Thoughtful.fit Trauma Recovery Program
Specialized trauma recovery and mental health support for families of missing persons
Available Services:
Crisis Text Line
24/724/7 text-based crisis support for immediate emotional assistance
Available Services:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
24/724-hour crisis support and suicide prevention for individuals and families
Available Services:
Thoughtful.fit Family Support Groups
Peer support groups specifically for families affected by missing persons cases
Available Services:
Integrated Care Approach
Our partnership with Thoughtful.fit ensures that families receive comprehensive support that addresses both the immediate crisis of a missing person and the long-term mental health impacts. This integrated approach combines crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and ongoing therapeutic support.