Crime incidents in Washington saw an overall decrease last month, for the second month in a row, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents fell by about 9 percent, from 2,754 in December to 2,507 in January. Crime levels tend to follow seasonal patterns, and some of the most common offenses tend to decline in winter, which might partly explain the most recent downward trend.
The month-to-month decrease in incidents was led by theft and assault. Theft fell from 2,215 reported incidents in December to 1,982 in January. Assault incidents went from 188 to 156 for the month, or about a 17 percent decrease.
There were 113 burglary reports last month, and 23 shooting incidents. Burglary incidents dropped from 120 offenses the previous month, while shooting reports decreased by two incidents.
Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last month, robbery reports went from 172 to 200.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Anacostia, Columbia Heights and Capitol Hill saw the largest decline from December to January.
Thursdays, Wednesdays and Tuesdays saw the most reported crimes last month. The largest decrease from the previous month occurred on Sundays, Mondays and Saturdays, while incidents on Wednesdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays went up. After midnight, late night and early afternoon saw the most crime last month 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.
