Chicago crime rises in March: Which offenses are up the most?

Chicago crime rises in March: Which offenses are up the most?Photo: iStock
Hoodline
Published on April 15, 2019

The number of crime reports in Chicago saw an overall bump last month, after a previous decline, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.

Incidents rose by about 10 percent, from 17,920 in February to 19,747 in March. Despite last month's increase, crime reports remain about even with the same month last year. Crime levels tend to follow seasonal patterns, making it useful to look at the year-over-year comparison as well.

The month-to-month increase in reports was led by assault and drug-related offenses. Assault rose from 4,725 reported incidents in February to 5,637 in March, and has grown by 78 incidents since March of last year. Drug-related offenses went from 1,105 to 1,281 for the month, or about a 15 percent increase. Drug-related offenses are also slightly up from a year ago.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase last month in weapons offenses, from 385 incidents per month to 511, and in auto theft, from 640 to 709. Weapons offenses reports have increased considerably since the same month last year, while auto theft incidents have declined.

There were 222 rape or sexual assault reports last month, and 201 offenses involving children. Rape or sexual assault reports have remained at about the same level as in March of last year, as have offenses involving children.

Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last month, arson reports went from 29 to 24. Burglary incidents fell from 664 to 660. Arson and burglary incidents have seen an overall downward trend since the same time last year.

When it comes to crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest increase last month occurred in South Austin, West Garfield Park and Lakeview. East Side, West Woodlawn and Ford City 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 the Illinois Medical District, and declined the most in Washington Park.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays experienced the most crime incidents last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Fridays, Sundays and Saturdays, while incidents on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Mondays went down. Comparing times of day, late afternoon, midday and evening continue to see the most crime incidents 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.