Baltimore crime declines in December; theft continues to trend down

Baltimore crime declines in December; theft continues to trend downPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on January 07, 2019

Crime reports in Baltimore saw an overall decrease last month, for the second month in a row, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.

Incidents fell by 8.8 percent, from 16,757 in November to 15,277 in December. Crime levels tend to follow seasonal patterns, and some of the most common offenses tend to decline in winter, which might partly explain the most recent downward trend.

The month-to-month decrease in reports was led by theft and assault. Theft fell from 2,809 reported incidents in November to 2,090 in December. Assault incidents went from 2,597 to 2,134 for the month, or about a 17 percent decrease.

There was one reported arson last month, and 853 burglary incidents. Arson incidents dropped from seven offenses the previous month, while burglary reports decreased by 214 incidents.

Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last month, shooting reports went from 290 to 335.

Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest decline last month occurred in Brooklyn, East Baltimore Midway and Ellwood Park-Monument.

Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays produced the most reported crimes last month. The largest decrease from the previous month occurred on Thursdays, Fridays and Wednesdays, while incidents on Saturdays, Sundays and went up. Late morning, midday and after midnight saw the most crime last month on average each day.

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.