The number of crime incidents in Washington saw an overall decrease last week, after a previous rise, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents fell to 503 for the week of March 18, down from 536 the week before.

Theft and assault led the decrease in crime reports. Theft fell to 401 incidents last week, from 432 the week before. Assault went from 35 to 22.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a notable percentage decrease in shootings, from five incidents per week to two, and in burglary, from 20 to 19 incidents.

Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last week, reports of robbery went from 36 to 48.

There were 11 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of four 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, one involved an arrest, down from two reported arrests the week before.

Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Anacostia, Capitol Hill and Eckington continued to have the most reported incidents last week.

Capitol Hill experienced the largest drop in crime. Crime reports in Fort Totten-Upper Northeast also fell, after increasing the week before, and incidents in Eckington are down considerably as well.

Regarding when crime most often occurs, Saturdays, Mondays and Fridays witnessed the most reported crimes last week. The largest decrease from the previous week occurred on Sundays, Thursdays and Fridays, while incidents on Saturdays, Wednesdays and Tuesdays went up. Comparing times of day, after midnight, evening and late 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.

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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.