Can I Call The Police If My Child Is Stealing From Me?

Updated: 11.4.25

It’s a tough reality for some parents: facing behaviour from their children that goes beyond tantrums or rebellious phases. One such challenge that can cause significant emotional strain is when a child steals—especially from their own family.

When this happens, one pressing question often surfaces: “Can I call the police if my child is stealing from me?”

Can Parents Report Their Child’s Theft to the Police?

Yes, parents can report their child to the police for stealing. While this decision is never easy, it may become necessary in cases involving repeated theft or concerning patterns such as links to substance abuse or aggression.

This isn’t about betrayal—it’s about prioritising your child’s well-being, ensuring safety, and addressing unlawful behaviour early. However, police involvement should typically be a last resort, after all other corrective steps have been exhausted.

Related: Why is My Child Stealing and What Can I Do?

When Is It Appropriate to Involve the Police?

The choice to involve the police shouldn't be taken lightly. In most situations, minor or one-off incidents are best handled through communication and family discipline. However, some signs indicate more serious intervention might be required:

1. Repeated or Large-Scale Theft

Persistent theft of high-value items or large sums of money signals a deeper problem that may require legal consequences to help correct.

2. Theft Tied to Violence or Threats

If your child threatens violence or uses intimidation while stealing, it’s critical to involve the authorities. Protecting household safety should always be the top priority.

3. No Change Despite Consequences

If disciplinary efforts and conversations haven’t helped, and the behaviour continues, law enforcement intervention may be needed to highlight the severity of the situation.

Related: When To Talk To Your Child About Drugs

How to Respond When Your Child Steals

Addressing stealing early is vital. Start with a calm, honest conversation that explains why stealing is wrong, both ethically and legally.

Open Communication

Discuss with your child what led to the incident. Listening without judgement helps identify underlying causes—whether emotional, social, or situational.

Clear and Consistent Consequences

Explain that stealing has real consequences, and ensure those consequences are consistent. This might include returning the stolen item, apologising, or facing temporary loss of privileges.

The Impact of Stealing on Your Child

Criminal Record and Future Barriers

A criminal record—even for a minor offence—can impact employment, travel, and education opportunities later in life. Early intervention helps avoid this long-term damage.

Stealing Can Become Habitual

Unchecked, theft can become a pattern of behaviour. Helping your child understand this early can prevent more serious issues in adolescence or adulthood.

Preventative Strategies for Parents

Teach the Value of Property: Help children appreciate the effort behind ownership—this encourages respect for others' belongings.

Encourage Earning: Establish small rewards or chore-based systems to show that effort leads to reward, reducing the appeal of stealing.

Rebuilding Trust

After a theft, emotional damage in the family is likely. Rebuilding trust starts with honesty and mutual accountability—reinforce the message that change is possible.

Professional Guidance

If stealing becomes persistent or emotionally complex, consider therapy. A counsellor can help uncover root causes and guide behavioural change.

Support Resources for UK Parents

• Cafcass – Advice and support for families in the justice system.
• Family Links – Emotional health resources and parenting tools.
• NSPCC – Offers Positive Parenting guides and advice for child behaviour.
• Action for Children – Parenting support services across the UK.
• UK Safer Internet Centre – Resources for online safety and digital parenting.

Conclusion

If your child is stealing, take it seriously. While involving the police may seem extreme, in some cases it’s the only way to address dangerous patterns.

Ultimately, your goal is to guide your child toward better behaviour and help them avoid choices that could harm their future.

Use a mix of open conversation, consistent consequences, and—if needed—professional or legal intervention. Your support, even in tough times, makes all the difference.

FAQs

Are there alternatives to police involvement?

Yes—counselling, school support services, and restorative justice programs can help resolve issues without legal consequences.

What happens if the police get involved?

Outcomes depend on the child’s age and the nature of the theft. They may receive a warning, be referred to youth programs, or face legal proceedings.

What warning signs should I watch for?

Look for hidden or unexplained items, lying, or sudden financial changes. Approach calmly and start a conversation if you’re concerned.

Can police educate children on theft consequences?

Yes—many police departments offer outreach programs where officers speak to youth about legal consequences and making better choices.