The number of crime reports in Austin saw an overall decrease last month, after a previous rise, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents fell by 9.6%, from 8,693 in March to 7,856 in April. This month’s decrease in crime incidents puts the monthly total at about 4.3% below the same month a year ago. Crime levels tend to follow seasonal patterns, making a year-over-year comparison most relevant.
Theft and domestic offenses led the most recent decrease in crime reports. Theft fell from 1,397 reported incidents in March to 1,147 in April, and has fallen by 64 incidents since April of last year. Domestic offenses went from 1,138 to 1,002 for the month, or about an 11 percent decrease. Domestic offenses are down even more from a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage decrease last month in burglary, from 347 incidents per month to 259, and in alcohol-related offenses, from 398 to 313. Both burglary and alcohol-related offenses have decreased since the same month last year.
There were 195 harassment reports last month. Harassment has gone down by about 11 percent since April of last year.
Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last month, offenses involving children went from 87 to 113. Assault incidents rose from 1,012 to 1,021, and drug-related offenses went up from 446 to 454. Offenses involving children and assault incidents have seen an overall upward trend since the same time last year.
When it comes to crime patterns in different areas of the city, Downtown, East Cesar Chavez and North Austin saw the largest decline from March to April. East Oak Hill, Holly and Bouldin also saw considerable percentage decreases 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 Pleasant Valley, and declined the most in South River City.
Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays had the most crime incidents last month. The largest decrease from the previous month occurred on Saturdays, Sundays and Fridays, while incidents on Mondays and Tuesdays went up. Comparing times of day, evening, late afternoon and after midnight 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.
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.
