Crime dropping in Washington: What's the latest in the trend?

Crime dropping in Washington: What's the latest in the trend?Photo: iStock
Hoodline
Published on April 18, 2019

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 518 for the week of April 8, down from 558 the week before.

The overall decrease in crime incidents was led by theft and shooting. Theft fell to 414 incidents last week, from 448 the week before. Shootings went from 14 to five.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage decrease in burglary, from 19 incidents per week to 17, and in assault, from 38 to 37 incidents.

Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last week, reports of robbery went from 31 to 37.

There were eight reports of "other" crimes, an increase of one from the previous week. SpotCrime's broad "other" category includes a variety of offenses like fraud, trespassing, public disturbance and traffic violations.

Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Anacostia, Eckington and Columbia Heights had the most reported incidents last week. Anacostia and Eckington were at the top of the list the previous week as well.

Crime in Anacostia decreased the most. Crime reports in Capitol Hill also fell, after increasing the week before, and incidents in Shaw are down considerably as well.

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

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.