Crime increasing in New Orleans: What's the latest in the trend?

Crime increasing in New Orleans: What's the latest in the trend?Photo: iStock
Hoodline
Published on May 30, 2019

The number of crime incidents in New Orleans saw an overall increase last week, for the second week in a row, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents rose to 4,509 for the week of May 20, up from 4,388 the week before.

The specific offenses that increased the most were burglary and shooting. Burglary rose to 346 incidents last week, from 296 the week before. Shootings went from 84 to 106. Reports of burglary have continued to grow for the last two weeks.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase in vandalism, from 117 incidents per week to 134, and in theft, from 497 to 511 incidents.

Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, reports of assault went from 394 to 357. Incidents of robbery fell from 26 to 24, and arson went down from two to one.

There were 3,030 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 58 from the previous week. SpotCrime's broad "other" category includes a variety of offenses like fraud, trespassing, public disturbance and traffic violations. Of those incidents, 103 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, up from 82 reported arrests the week before.

Considering the concentration of crime across the city, the French Quarter, Central Business District and Little Woods continued to have the most reported incidents last week.

Treme' Lafitte experienced the highest growth in crime; incidents in the neighborhood have been rising for two weeks in a row. Crime reports in Mid-City also rose, after declining the week before, and incidents in St. Claude are up considerably as well.

Regarding when crime most often occurs, Tuesday, Saturday and Monday continued to have the most crime incidents last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Sunday, Saturday and Tuesday, while incidents on Thursday and Wednesday went down. Comparing times of day, midday, late afternoon 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.