Seattle crime recap: Theft continues to trend up

Seattle crime recap: Theft continues to trend upPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on March 21, 2019

The number of crime incidents in Seattle 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 2,478 for the week of March 11, up from 2,171 the week before.

The specific offenses that increased the most were theft and assault. Theft rose to 349 incidents last week, from 322 the week before. Assault went from 135 to 159.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase in shootings, from zero incidents per week to three, and in burglary, from 131 to 149 incidents.

There were 24 reported robbery incidents last week. That represents an increase from 18 incidents the previous week. There were also 60 incidents of vandalism, up from 55 the week before.

There were 1,734 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 224 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, 33 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, up from 29 reported arrests the week before.

Considering the concentration of crime across the city, Pioneer Square, Central Business District and Belltown had the most reported incidents last week. Pioneer Square and Central Business District were at the top of the list the previous week as well.

Belltown saw the largest increase. Crime reports in Pioneer Square also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in Pike Market are up considerably as well.

Regarding when most crimes are committed, Fridays, Thursdays and Mondays witnessed the most reported crimes last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Sundays, Fridays and Mondays, while incidents on Saturdays went down. Comparing times of day, late night, after midnight 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.

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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.