Los Angeles crime rises in March: Which offenses lead the trend?

Los Angeles crime rises in March: Which offenses lead the trend?Photo: iStock
Hoodline
Published on April 18, 2019

The number of crime incidents in Los Angeles 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 13 percent, from 16,361 in February to 18,589 in March. This month’s increase in crime incidents puts the monthly total at about even with the same month a year ago. Crime trends often contain recurring patterns, based on seasons and other local events, making a year-over-year comparison most relevant.

Assault and vandalism incidents increased the most from the previous month. Assault rose from 2,144 reported incidents in February to 2,752 in March, and has grown by 171 incidents since March of last year. Vandalism incidents went from 1,503 to 1,756 for the month, or about a 16 percent increase. Vandalism reports are also slightly up from a year ago.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a notable percentage increase last month in kidnapping (attempted), from one incidents per month to eight, and in domestic offenses, from 1,051 to 1,258. Both kidnapping (attempted) and domestic offenses have increased since the same month last year.

There were 33 arson reports last month, and 249 rape or sexual assault incidents. Arson has remained at about the same level as in March of last year, as has rape or sexual assault.

Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last month, auto burglary reports went from 1,355 to 1,350. Theft (attempted) incidents fell from 60 to 55, and fraud or financial crimes (attempted) went down from 12 to nine. All three have seen an overall downward trend since the same time last year.

Considering the concentration of crime across the city, West Vernon, Downtown and Van Nuys saw the largest increase from February to March. Sycamore Square, Sunland and Green Meadows 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 Broadway-Manchester, and declined the most in Hollywood.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays saw the most reported crimes last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Comparing times of day, midday, evening and late afternoon 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.