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 118 for the week of January 14, up from 102 the week before.
Assault and burglary led the increase in crime reports. Assault rose to 26 incidents last week, from 19 the week before. Burglary went from one to four.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase in robbery, from one incidents per week to four, and in vandalism, from two to three incidents.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, reports of theft went from 17 to 16.
There were 65 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of three from the previous week. SpotCrime's broad "other" category includes a variety of offenses like fraud, trespassing, public disturbance and traffic violations. Of those incidents, 25 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, the same number as the week before.
Considering the concentration of crime across the city, Downtown, Meridian, and Guide Meridian had the most reported incidents last week. Downtown and Meridian were at the top of the list the previous week as well.
Cornwall Park experienced the highest growth in crime. Crime reports in Puget also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in Guide Meridian are up considerably as well.
Regarding when crime most often occurs, Tuesdays, Saturdays and Wednesdays witnessed the most reported crimes last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Tuesdays, Mondays and Thursdays, while incidents on Sundays, Wednesdays and went down. Early afternoon, late 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.
