The number of crime incidents in Austin saw an overall increase last month, after a previous decline, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents rose by about 13 percent, from 7,588 in February to 8,579 in March. This month’s increase in crime incidents puts the monthly total at about even with the same month a year ago. Crime levels tend to follow seasonal patterns, making a year-over-year comparison most relevant.
Theft and domestic offenses increased the most from the previous month. Theft rose from 1,119 reported incidents in February to 1,361 in March, and has grown by 87 incidents since March of last year. Domestic offenses went from 976 to 1,140 for the month, or about a 16 percent increase. Domestic offenses are also slightly up from a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase last month in criminal mischief, from 365 incidents per month to 454, and in assault, from 882 to 1,008. Both criminal mischief and assault have increased since the same month last year.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last month, fraud or financial crimes went from 405 to 347. Auto burglary incidents fell from 1,002 to 959, and vandalism incidents went down from 35 to 24. Fraud or financial crimes have seen an overall downward trend since the same time last year, while auto burglary reports have gone up.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Downtown, East Cesar Chavez and North Austin saw the largest increase from February to March. Holly, Bouldin and East Oak Hill also saw considerable percentage increases in crime offenses for the month, although they continue to have lower overall crime levels. Over the past year, crime has gone up the most in Pleasant Valley, and declined the most in Riverside.
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays continued to experience the most crime incidents last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Saturdays, Sundays and Fridays. Comparing times of day, evening, after midnight and late night 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 CrimeoMeter 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.
