Investigations & Reporting

What WSCS Investigates

WSCS investigates incidents that occur on Western properties and fall within the authority of its special constables, including:

• Theft and property damage
• Assaults, threats, harassment, and unwanted behaviour
• Fraud, scams, and certain online incidents connected to Western
• Trespassing and unauthorized access
• Traffic collisions and driving-related incidents on Western property
• Incidents in residences, academic buildings, parking areas, and other Western spaces
• Information connected to an existing WSCS occurrence or investigation

Some matters may be referred to the London Police Service or another Western unit depending on the location, seriousness, and circumstances of the incident.

What Information to Preserve

Preserve any information that may help WSCS understand what happened and identify the people, property, or activity involved.

• Photos, video, screenshots, messages, emails, or voicemails
• Names, usernames, phone numbers, email addresses, or account information
• Descriptions of people, vehicles, property, or clothing
• Dates, times, locations, and a written summary of what occurred
• Receipts, serial numbers, ownership records, or other property information
• Contact information for witnesses or other people who may have relevant information

Do not alter, delete, forward, or publicly share evidence unless necessary for your safety. Do not put yourself at risk to collect information.

What Happens After You Make a Report

WSCS will review the information provided, address any immediate safety concerns, and determine the appropriate next steps.

• A Special Constable may speak with you, witnesses, and other people involved
• An occurrence report may be created to document the incident
• Relevant information, records, or evidence may be collected and reviewed
• Additional follow-up may be required as the investigation develops
• The matter may be referred to London Police Service or another Western unit when appropriate
• You may be provided with information about supports, referrals, or further steps

The response and investigation process will depend on the circumstances, available evidence, level of risk, and applicable legal requirements.

Occurrence Numbers and Follow-Up

If an occurrence report is created, you may be provided with an occurrence number for future reference.

• Keep the occurrence number in a safe place
• Use it when contacting WSCS about the same incident
• Provide updated information if new evidence or details become available
• Ask what follow-up information may be available and when to expect it
• Contact WSCS if your safety concerns change or become more urgent

Information that can be shared may be limited by privacy, legal, and investigative requirements.

Support and Referrals

WSCS can provide information about appropriate Western and community supports based on the circumstances of the incident.

• Student health, wellness, and counselling services
• Employee and workplace supports
• Sexual and gender-based violence support
• Residence, accessibility, and academic support services
• Victim-support and community resources
• Other Western departments responsible for conduct, safety, facilities, or service concerns

Seeking support does not require you to know which service is responsible. WSCS can help identify an appropriate next step.

You Can Ask Questions Before Making a Report

You can contact WSCS to ask what your options are, what information may be needed, and what the reporting process could involve. In some situations, WSCS may be required to act based on the information provided and the level of risk.