Crime incidents in Palo Alto saw an overall decrease last week, after a previous rise, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents fell to 107 for the week of December 10, down from 132 the week before.
The overall decrease in crime incidents was led by burglary and theft. Burglary fell to 29 incidents last week, from 53 the week before. Theft went from 24 to 18. Reports of theft have continued to fall for the last two weeks.
There were four reported assault incidents last week. That represents a steady state from the previous week.
Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last week, reports of vandalism went from two to four.
There were 30 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of four 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, which is up from 21 arrests the week before.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, University South, Downtown North and Midtown had the most reported incidents last week. University South and Downtown North were at the top of the list the previous week as well.
Crime in University South decreased the most: incidents in the neighborhood have been falling for two weeks in a row. Crime reports in Downtown North also fell for a second week, and incidents in Ventura are down considerably as well.
Regarding when most crimes are committed, Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays continued to witness the most crime incidents last week. The largest decrease from the previous week occurred on Fridays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, while incidents on Tuesdays, Sundays and Thursdays went up. Evening, late morning and late night 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.
