The number of crime incidents in Washington saw an overall bump last month, for the third month in a row, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents rose by 6.3%, from 2,539 in April to 2,700 in May. Despite last month's increase, crime reports remain similar to those seen a year ago. Crime tends to follow similar patterns over time, with seasonal ups and downs, making it useful to look at the year-over-year comparison as well.
Theft and robbery incidents increased the most from the previous month. Theft rose from 1,179 reported incidents in April to 1,254 in May, and has grown by 61 incidents since May of last year. Robbery incidents went from 143 to 184 for the month, or about a 28% increase. Robbery reports are also slightly up from a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase last month in burglary, from 88 incidents per month to 126, and in rape or sexual assault, from 16 to 26. Burglary reports have decreased slightly since the same month last year, while rape or sexual assault incidents have risen.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last month, auto burglary reports went from 762 to 728. Homicide incidents fell from 15 to nine. Auto burglary and homicide incidents have seen an overall downward trend since the same time last year.
Considering the concentration of crime across the city, Anacostia, Logan Circle and Capitol Hill saw the largest increase from April to May. Friendship Heights, South West and the U Street Corridor 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 Foggy Bottom, and declined the most in Fort Totten-Upper Northeast.
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays saw the most crime incidents last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, while incidents on Mondays, Tuesdays and Sundays went down. Comparing times of day, evening, late night and early 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.
