The number of crime reports in Austin saw an overall decline last month, after a previous rise, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects reports from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents fell by 1.3%, from 8,947 in July to 8,835 in August. However, looking at the broader trend, Austin crime has increased from August of last year. Crime tends to follow similar patterns over time, with seasonal ups and downs, making it useful to look at the year-over-year comparison.
Most types of crimes decreased this month, led by assault and theft. Assault fell from 1,225 reported incidents in July to 1,128 in August, but has risen by 61 incidents since August of last year. Theft incidents went from 1,407 to 1,318 for the month, or a 6.3% decrease. Theft reports are also slightly down from a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a notable percentage decrease last month in prostitution, from 15 incidents per month to four, and in burglary, from 398 to 351. Prostitution reports have decreased slightly since the same month last year, and burglary incidents have also declined.
There were 986 auto burglary reports last month, and three homicide incidents. Auto burglary has remained at about the same level as in August of last year, as has homicide.
Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last month, alcohol-related offenses went from 330 to 404. Domestic offenses rose from 1,125 to 1,180, and drug-related offenses went up from 284 to 310. Alcohol-related offenses and domestic offenses have seen an overall upward trend since the same time last year.
When it comes to crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest decline last month occurred in North Austin, North Loop and North Lamar. MLK, Dawson and Hancock 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 North Burnett, and declined the most in Chestnut.
Fridays, Saturdays and Thursdays had the most reported crimes last month. The largest decrease from the previous month occurred on Wednesdays, Mondays and Tuesdays, while incidents on Saturdays, Thursdays and Fridays went up. Comparing times of day, after midnight, late night and evening 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.
