I have just seen on the news that the police are thinking about releasing CCTV fottage of potential witnesses to a crime to force them to come forward!
Is it illegal to not tell the police if you witness something ?
No, not here at least. But later on if they find out that you were holding information, that might be considered aiding the criminal act. Otherwise thats more in your own conscience what you do. Difficult enough eh?
>> Edited by Jonna_Rex on Wednesday 18th January 19:21
In some instances I can see this being a good idea as lots of prople may not realise they actually witnessed something significant. However as noted above, not the best in all circumstances.
You do not have to say anything to the police. BUT if you are later charged with a crime and you have not mentioned, when questioned, something that you later rely on in court, then this may be taken into account when deciding if you are guilty.
Am afraid the cameras around eg shopping malls, gas stations can be viewed and shown to public within a court order to resolve the crime. Pressure for sure, someone is bound to identify you and say, you were there...