Crime incidents in Bellingham saw an overall increase last week, after a previous decline, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents rose to 106 for the week of December 10, up from 89 the week before.
Vandalism and burglary led the increase in crime incidents. Vandalism rose to 10 incidents last week, from four the week before. Burglary went from three to five.
While a somewhat smaller category, there was also a sizable percentage increase in theft, from 16 incidents per week to 17.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, reports of assault went from 25 to 22.
There were 30 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of seven from the previous week. SpotCrime's broad "other" category includes a variety of offenses like fraud, trespassing, public disturbance and traffic violations. SpotCrime data also indicates that 22 arrests were made last week, up from 16 arrests the week before.
As far as where crime is concentrated in the city, Downtown Business District, Lettered Streets and Merdian continued to have the most reported incidents last week.
Mt. Baker saw the largest increase. Crime reports in Sehome also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in Puget are up considerably as well.
Regarding when most crimes are committed, Thursdays, Wednesdays and Mondays saw the most reported crimes last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, while incidents on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays went down. Midday, early afternoon, and evening saw the most crime last week.
To report a crime in progress or life-threatening emergency, call 911. To report a non-urgent crime or complaint, contact your local police department.
Head to SpotCrime to get free local crime alerts in your area.
This story was created automatically using local crime data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about our data sources and local crime methodology. Got thoughts about what we're doing? Go here to share your feedback.
