Philadelphia crime recap: Theft and assault rise after previous decline

Philadelphia crime recap: Theft and assault rise after previous declinePhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on February 13, 2019

The number of crime incidents in Philadelphia 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 3,083 for the week of Feb 4, up from 2,422 the week before.

The overall increase in crime reports was led by theft and assault. Theft rose to 1,092 incidents last week, from 870 the week before. Assault went from 520 to 683.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase in vandalism, from 196 incidents per week to 265, and in shootings, from three to nine incidents.

There were seven reported arson incidents last week. That represents an increase from six incidents the previous week. There were also 125 incidents of burglary, up from 120 the week before.

There were also 779 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 169 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, 347 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, up from 258 reported arrests the week before.

Considering the concentration of crime across the city, Upper Kensington, Cobbs Creek and Rittenhouse had the most reported incidents last week. Cobbs Creek and Rittenhouse were at the top of the list the previous week as well.

Upper Kensington saw the largest increase. Crime reports in Frankford also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in Ogontz are up considerably as well.

Regarding when crimes often occurred, Thursdays, Mondays and Tuesdays produced the most reported crimes last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Sundays, Thursdays and Fridays. Comparing times of day, early afternoon, midday and early morning 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.