The number of crime reports in Dallas saw an overall increase last month, after a previous decline, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents rose by 4.2%, from 10,300 in April to 10,731 in May. This month’s increase in crime incidents puts the monthly total at about 31% above the same month a year ago. Crime levels tend to follow seasonal patterns, making it useful to look at the year-over-year comparison as well.
The offenses most on the rise last month were assault, fraud or financial crimes. Assault rose from 701 reported incidents in April to 770 in May, and has grown by 33 incidents since May of last year. Fraud or financial crimes went from 183 to 246 for the month, or about a 34% increase. Fraud or financial crimes are also slightly up from a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase last month in homicide, from six incidents per month to 23, and in drug-related offenses, from 197 to 256. Both homicide and drug-related offenses have increased since the same month last year.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last month, burglary reports went from 744 to 667. Alcohol-related offenses fell from 520 to 500, and arson incidents went down from 12 to eight. All three have seen an overall downward trend since the same time last year.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest increase last month occurred in Far North, South Boulevard-Park Row Historic and M Streets. Oak Cliff, Main Street District and Eagle Ford 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 Northeast Dallas, and declined the most in Reunion District.
Fridays, Thursdays and Wednesdays had the most crime incidents last month. The largest increase from the previous month occurred on Fridays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, while incidents on Mondays and Tuesdays went down. Comparing times of day, late morning, evening and early morning 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.
