The number of 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 722 for the week of February 11, up from 700 the week before.
Theft and assault led the increase in crime incidents. Theft rose to 97 incidents last week, from 75 the week before. Assault went from 64 to 76. Reports of theft have continued to grow for the last two weeks.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase in robbery, from six incidents per week to nine, and in shootings, from two to three incidents.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, reports of burglary went from 59 to 47. Incidents of vandalism fell from 18 to 16, and arson went down from three to two.
There were 472 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, nine involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from 10 reported arrests the week before.
Considering the concentration of crime across the city, Sunset Park, Pacific Palisades and Brentwood 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 experienced the largest drop in crime.
Regarding when most crimes are committed, Fridays, Mondays and Tuesdays saw the most crime incidents last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays, while incidents on Thursdays and Saturdays went down. Comparing times of day, after midnight, late afternoon and evening 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.
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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.
