Crime dropping in Lexington: What's the latest in the trend?

The number of crime incidents in Lexington saw an overall decrease last week, after a previous rise, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects reports from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents fell to 122 for the week of Sept. 23, down from 183 the week before.

The offenses that decreased the most were assault and theft. Assault fell to 27 incidents last week, from 44 the week before. Theft went from 54 to 39.

Among other categories, there was also a decrease in vandalism, from 25 incidents per week to 16, and in burglary, from 19 to 12 incidents.

There was one reported shooting last week. That represents a decrease from two incidents the previous week. There were also four incidents of robbery, down from five the week before.

There were 23 reports of "other" crimes, a decrease of 11 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, six involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from eight reported arrests the week before.

Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Duncan Park and Castlewood Park had the most reported incidents last week. Duncan Park was at the top of the list the previous week as well.

Crime in Central Downtown decreased the most. Crime reports in Duncan Park also fell, after increasing the week before.

Regarding when crime most often occurs, Saturday, Thursday and Tuesday saw the most reported crimes last week. The largest decrease from the previous week occurred on Monday, Sunday and Wednesday, while incidents on Tuesday went up. Comparing times of day, evening, late afternoon and after midnight 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.