Make sure that you are able to provide the exact address of the location where you suspect drug activity is happening. If you know the full names of the people who live there, provide that information, too. If you see a car connected with the drug-related activity, take note of the license plate. You should also write down when the car arrives, how long it remains at the address, and how frequently it appears. You should also tell the authorities if you see small packages being exchanged. These could be either drugs or money. Note patterns, but also notice if those patterns change. Don’t assume that the authorities are aware of any changes–you can always update your report as necessary. [1] X Research source You will also want to point out anything else specific you know. Are there children living there? Are there dogs on the property? Is there a specific time of day where the activity most often occurs? Make notes of anything you think might be relevant.
Ask the person handling your call who you can speak to about reporting drug-related activity. It is possible a clerk may take your report and pass it along to the appropriate department. If you would feel more comfortable, you can ask to be connected to an officer who handles drug related crimes.
Use a hotline or online form. Both the DEA and DOJ have phone numbers and websites you can use to report illegal drug activity. If you live in a large city, it is likely that a federal agency will have a local office near you. You can phone that office to report your information.
When making a report, you might be asked to provide your personal information. However, this is completely voluntary. If you want to stay anonymous, you can.
Look for large amounts of plastic bags in the yard or on the porch of the house in questions. A porch light that is on at odd hours of the day or night is another possible indicator of drug related activity. If a house is occupied, but the blinds or shades are always drawn, this is another possible sign that something illegal is happening. Make a note if you see people arriving at the house/building regularly for very short periods of time. It does not take long for drug deals to be completed. Chemical odors are a sign that drugs are actually being manufactured on the premises. You should be aware of any strange strong smells that come from the suspected residence.
Also be on the lookout for people standing on corners and talking to others down the street on a two-way radio.
Meth is sold in small baggies. Many meth deals occur late at night. Users often suffer from lack of sleep, and this may be reflected in their appearance. Crack is another common street drug, and is often found in areas with gang activity. Crack is often smoked from a small glass pipe, so make sure to pay attention if you see those lying around.
You do not have to use specifics when asking your neighbors if they have noticed any signs of drug related activity. You can ask vague questions and still receive some information.
Ask your local police department for information about the crime rate in your area and how it relates to drugs. It is good to be aware of what is happening in your area.
Remember to use caution when discussing your suspicions with others. You do not want to spread false information, nor do you want to draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
