Washington crime on the decline in December; theft drops, vandalism rises

Washington crime on the decline in December; theft drops, vandalism risesPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on January 06, 2019

Crime reports in Washington saw an overall decline last month, after a previous rise, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.

Incidents fell by about 26 percent, from 3,649 in November to 2,695 in December. Crime trends are often seasonal, and some of the most common offenses tend to decline in winter, which might partly explain the most recent downward trend.

Theft and robbery led the most recent decrease in crime incidents. Theft fell from 2,936 reported incidents in November to 2,165 in December. Robbery incidents went from 312 to 170 for the month, or about a 45 percent decrease.

There was one reported arson last month, and 185 assault incidents. Arson incidents remained at about the same level as in the previous month, while assault reports decreased by 26 incidents.

Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last month, vandalism reports went from one to five. Shooting incidents rose from 23 to 25.

When it comes to crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest decline last month occurred in Anacostia, Shaw and Eckington.

Sundays, Saturdays and Fridays produced the most crime incidents last month. The largest decrease from the previous month occurred on Fridays, Tuesdays and Mondays. After midnight, late afternoon and evening continue to see the most crime incidents 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.

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.