Seattle crime increasing: Which offenses are rising most?

Seattle crime increasing: Which offenses are rising most?Photo: iStock
Hoodline
Published on May 30, 2019

The number of crime incidents in Seattle saw an overall increase last week, after a previous decline, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents rose to 1,662 for the week of May 20, up from 1,437 the week before.

The specific offenses that increased the most were burglary and theft. Burglary rose to 96 incidents last week, from 52 the week before. Theft went from 214 to 228. Reports of theft have continued to grow for the last two weeks.

While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a considerable percentage increase in vandalism, from 32 incidents per week to 42, and in robbery, from 15 to 21 incidents.

There were 97 reported assault incidents last week. That represents an increase from 85 incidents the previous week. There were also four shooting incidents.

There were 1,174 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 139 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, 14 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from 17 reported arrests the week before.

Considering the concentration of crime across the city, Capitol Hill, Central Business District and Queen Anne had the most reported incidents last week. Capitol Hill and Central Business District were at the top of the list the previous week as well.

Queen Anne experienced the highest growth in crime. Crime reports in First Hill also rose for a second week, and incidents in Northgate are up considerably as well.

Regarding when most crimes are committed, Tuesday, Saturday and Monday saw the most reported crimes last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Wednesday, Thursday and Tuesday, while incidents on Sunday, Monday and Friday went down. Comparing times of day, after midnight, late afternoon and early morning 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.