Police: “No Requirement To Wait 48 Hours”
Noting a misconception that you have to wait to file a missing person’s report, the police advised “that there is no requirement to wait 48 hours,” and urged people to contact the police right away if have “concerns about the whereabouts of an individual.”
A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service wishes to advise the public that there is no requirement to wait 48 hours to file a report if someone goes missing, particularly in the case of a minor or someone whose mental or emotional state may be compromised.”
Martin Weekes, Assistant Commissioner of Police, said: “It has come to our attention via social media posts, that some members of the community are of the belief that a certain period of time must elapse before they are able to file a missing person’s report. That is simply not so.
“We urge that should you have concerns about the whereabouts of an individual and fear for their safety or wellbeing, please get in contact with the Bermuda Police Service right away.
“While each situation will be addressed according to its specific merit, it is important that information about individuals who have gone missing be immediately provided to the police in order to minimise any risk to that individual, by ensuring that they are located in the shortest possible time.
“We are grateful to the community for their continued support in providing information when we issue appeals for assistance in locating individuals who have been reported missing.”
The 48 hour wait period is a common theme in American television shows and films. It is easy to see where the misconception comes from.