The number of crime incidents in Austin saw an overall decrease last month, after a previous rise, according to data from CrimeoMeter, which collects reports from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents fell by 7.4 percent, from 8,957 in August to 8,295 in September. This month’s decrease in crime incidents puts the monthly total at about even with the same month 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.
Domestic offenses and auto burglary led the most recent decrease in crime incidents. Domestic offenses fell from 1,183 reported incidents in August to 1,082 in September, but have risen by six incidents since September of last year. Auto burglary incidents went from 997 to 901 for the month, or a 9.6% decrease. Auto burglary reports are down even more from a year ago.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a notable percentage decrease last month in fraud or financial crimes, from 433 incidents per month to 346, and in criminal mischief, from 486 to 408. Fraud or financial crimes reports have decreased considerably since the same month last year, while criminal mischief incidents have risen.
Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last month, auto theft reports went from 290 to 303. Suspicious person incidents rose from 66 to 75, and weapons offenses went up from 54 to 61. All three have seen an overall upward trend since the same time last year.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest decline last month occurred in Riverside, Downtown and Highland. Brentwood, Johnston Terrace and Garrison Park 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 Wells Branch, and declined the most in Govalle.
Sundays, Mondays and Fridays saw the most crime incidents last month. The largest decrease from the previous month occurred on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, while incidents on Mondays, Sundays and Wednesdays went up. Comparing times of day, late night, after midnight and late afternoon 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.
