Crime incidents in Santa Monica 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 725 for the week of January 21, up from 700 the week before.
The overall increase in crime reports was led by assault and vandalism. Assault rose to 76 incidents last week, from 65 the week before. Vandalism went from 18 to 21. Reports of assault have continued to grow for the last two weeks.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a notable percentage increase in shootings, from two incidents per week to three, and in robbery, from seven to eight incidents.
There was one reported arson last week. That represents a steady state from the previous week. There were also 82 incidents of theft.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, reports of burglary went from 39 to 35.
There were 499 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 13 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, six involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from nine reported arrests the week before.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Sunset Park, Brentwood, and Pacific Palisades had the most reported incidents last week. Sunset Park and Brentwood were at the top of the list the previous week as well.
Sunset Park saw the largest increase. Crime reports in Pacific Palisades also rose, after declining the week before.
Regarding when crime most often occurs, Saturdays, Thursdays and Fridays produced the most crime incidents last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Mondays, Saturdays and Thursdays, while incidents on Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays went down. After midnight, early morning and late night 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.
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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.
