Houston/ Crime & Emergencies
Published on January 18, 2019
Houston crime recap: Assault drops, burglary risesPhoto: iStock

Crime incidents in Houston 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 1,941 for the week of Jan. 7, down from 1,997 the week before.

The overall decrease in crime reports was led by assault and robbery. Assault fell to 197 incidents last week, from 240 the week before. Robbery went from 204 to 162.

There were eight reported shooting incidents last week. That represents a decrease from 14 incidents the previous week.

Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last week, reports of burglary went from 252 to 268, and theft rose from 1,230 to 1,239.

There were 41 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of six 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 26 arrests were made last week, up from 22 arrests the week before.

Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Sharpstown, Alief, and Northside/Northline continued to have the most reported incidents last week.

The Greater Hobby Area experienced the largest drop in crime. Crime reports in Independence Heights also fell, after increasing the week before, and incidents in Northside/Northline are down considerably as well.

Regarding when crime most often occurs, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays produced the most crime incidents last week. The largest decrease from the previous week occurred on Sundays, Thursdays and Fridays, while incidents on Tuesdays, Saturdays and went up. Early afternoon, late afternoon and midday continue to see the most crime incidents.

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.