Crime incidents in Costa Mesa 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 51 for the week of Jan. 28, up from 41 the week before.
The overall increase in crime incidents was led by burglary and theft. Burglary rose to six incidents last week, from two the week before. Theft went from 13 to 17. Reports of theft have continued to grow for the last two weeks.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase in vandalism, from zero incidents per week to three, and in robbery, from zero to two incidents.
There were 23 reports of "other" crimes, a decrease of one 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, 16 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from 17 reported arrests the week before.
Regarding when crime most often occurs, Fridays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays produced the most crime incidents. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Tuesdays, Fridays and Wednesdays, while incidents on Mondays, Saturdays and Thursdays went down. After midnight, late afternoon and late morning saw the most crime.
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.
