The number of crime incidents in Dallas 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 11 percent, from 9,305 in February to 10,373 in March. Despite last month's increase, crime reports remain at about the same level as a year ago. Crime trends often contain recurring patterns, based on seasons and other local events, making it useful to look at the year-over-year comparison as well.
The offenses most on the rise last month were theft and vandalism. Theft rose from 1,765 reported incidents in February to 1,970 in March, and has grown by 224 incidents since March of last year. Vandalism incidents went from 617 to 764 for the month, or about a 23 percent increase. However, vandalism reports have decreased since a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a notable percentage increase last month in weapons offenses, from 29 incidents per month to 60, and in assault, from 621 to 701. Both weapons offenses and assault have increased since the same month last year.
There were 10 homicide reports last month. Homicide 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, fraud or financial crimes went from 197 to 181. Arson incidents fell from nine to five. Fraud or financial crimes have seen an overall downward trend since the same time last year, while arson reports have gone up.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest increase last month occurred in Northeast Dallas, Preston Hollow and Far North. Farmers Market District, West End Historic District and Buckner Terrace 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 Cedar Crest, and declined the most in .
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays saw the most reported crimes last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, while incidents on Mondays and Tuesdays went down. Comparing times of day, late morning, midday and evening 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.
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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.
