Nope, because the police will refer to the department of labor to investigate all the details of it. But anyway, OP, I don't think you're being a coward by not reporting it now or later, the point is to report it. And covering and saving yourself trouble is completely okay, I'd say its even smart.

Plus, I mean, this isn't anything a community organization wouldn't have told you too. Not harming your own chances is a priority too, protecting the whistleblower is essential, otherwise no one would come forward. It's obvious this owner knows what "to do" to avoid paying for her/his crime, so it's best to be smarter.