The number of crime reports in Denver 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 8 percent, from 6,473 in February to 6,988 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.
The offenses most on the rise last month were auto burglary and theft. Auto burglary rose from 612 reported incidents in February to 697 in March, and has grown by 57 incidents since March of last year. Theft incidents went from 671 to 753 for the month, or about a 12 percent increase. Theft reports are also slightly up from a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase last month in alcohol-related offenses, from 78 incidents per month to 117, and in rape or sexual assault, from 14 to 28. Both alcohol-related offenses and rape or sexual assault have decreased since the same month last year.
There were 431 auto theft reports last month. Auto theft has remained at about the same level as in March of last year.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last month, drug-related offenses went from 371 to 344. Prostitution incidents fell from 23 to 11, and fraud or financial crimes went down from 79 to 71. Drug-related offenses have seen an overall downward trend since the same time last year, while prostitution reports have gone up.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest increase last month occurred in Five Points, Dia and Central Business District. Southmoor Park, Indian Creek and the Skyland 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 Rosedale, and declined the most in Capitol Hill.
Fridays, Saturdays and Tuesdays experienced the most reported crimes last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, while incidents on Wednesdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays went down. Comparing times of day, late afternoon, early afternoon and late morning 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.
