Dialing 911 is still the best policy for emergencies, the number 651-439-9381 for non-emergencies.
Those wishing to file a crime report online, meanwhile, have a new tool: online crime reports at www.cottagegrovemn.gov/261/Public-Safety
The City shared more recently on just what is involved in online filing.
“The Cottage Grove Police Department utilizes an online crime reporting tool for incidents like suspicious activity, traffic complaints, extra patrol requests, nuisances, and property crimes,” it said. “To file online, all of the following must be true:
• This is not an emergency situation, and you do not need immediate police assistance.
• You are at least 18 years old.
• The incident happened within the city limits of Cottage Grove, MN.
• You are not reporting the loss or theft of a firearm.
• You are not reporting the theft of a vehicle or license plate(s).
• No crime(s) against persons were involved. (Examples include burglary, robbery, assault, criminal sexual conduct, threats, harassment, and violation of a court order.)
• You are not reporting a motor vehicle crash.
• You understand that a CGPD officer may need to contact you to gather more information to complete your report.”

Provided the above conditions are met, the crime reporting process can be made online. Filing a false report is a crime under Minnesota Statute 609.505.
The online process for filing a true report meanwhile starts by asking what type of incident is involved, ranging from an extra patrol request to suspicious activity, traffic complaint, nuisance, lost property, theft, damaged property, and fraud, forgery, or identity theft.
From there, residents are asked to provide personal details, preferred time to be contacted, and whether they are reporting for self, dependent, employer or an organization. The incident date and time are collected, with a map to indicate where in Cottage Grove the incident occurred, along with questions of whether there is video and incident details. Information on suspects and witnesses is asked, along with details in case of damage to lost or stolen property or vehicle information if a vehicle is involved in the crime. Photos can be uploaded as well, with those reporting the crime able to save the report as a draft and come back.
A separate fraud packet is included for crimes of a financial or fraud based nature.
Following report submittal, residents reporting crimes will receive confirmation after submitting their report and may be contacted for followup by an officer if more information is needed. A case number will be generations and police report made. The officer will send an email containing the case number and a disposition. Depending on circumstances, one may also be contacted by a detective. Those with questions may then contact the assigned officer directly or the police department at 651-458-2850
A copy of the report can be obtained through a report request, either in person at the CGPD lobby during regular business hours or online at https://www.cottagegrovemn.gov/355/Report-Requests.