Crime reports in Raleigh saw an overall decline 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 about 1 percent, from 898 in November to 889 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.

Most types of crimes decreased this month, led by robbery and theft. Robbery fell from 24 reported incidents in November to 18 in December. Theft incidents went from 271 to 268 for the month, or a 1.1 percent decrease.

There was one reported arson last month, and 50 burglary incidents. Arson incidents remained at about the same level as in the previous month, as did burglary reports.

Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last month, assault reports went from 164 to 172. Vandalism incidents rose from 78 to 86, and shooting incidents went up from one to two.

Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Falls of Neuse, Six Forks and Central Raleigh saw the largest decline from November to December.

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 Mondays, Saturdays and Sundays went up. Late afternoon, late night and midday 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.

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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.