Seattle week in crime: Assault continues to trend up

Seattle week in crime: Assault continues to trend upPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on January 10, 2019

Crime incidents in Seattle 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 2,622 for the week of December 31, up from 2,197 the week before.

The offenses that increased the most were assault and robbery. Assault rose to 154 incidents last week, from 141 the week before. Robbery went from 19 to 30. Reports of assault have continued to grow for the last three weeks.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase in shootings, from one incidents per week to two, and in burglary, from 163 to 168 incidents.

Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, reports of theft went from 396 to 388, and vandalism fell from 75 to 69.

There were 1,780 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 396 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 31 arrests were made last week, up from 18 arrests the week before.

As far as where crime is concentrated in the city, Central Business District, Broadway, and Belltown had the most reported incidents last week. Central Business District was at the top of the list the previous week as well.

Broadway experienced the highest growth in crime. Crime reports in Central Business District also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in the University District are up considerably as well.

Regarding when most crimes are committed, Tuesdays, Fridays and Thursdays witnessed the most crime incidents last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Tuesdays, Fridays and Thursdays, while incidents on Sundays went down. Late night, early morning and late afternoon 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.