Crime going down in Pittsburgh: What's the latest in the trend?

Crime going down in Pittsburgh: What's the latest in the trend?Photo: iStock
Hoodline
Published on October 31, 2019

The number of crime incidents in Pittsburgh 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 507 for the week of Oct. 21, down from 527 the week before.

Burglary and vandalism led the decrease in crime reports. Burglary fell to 14 incidents last week, from 23 the week before. Vandalism went from 44 to 38.

Among other categories, there was also a decrease in robbery, from 18 incidents per week to 15, and in theft, from 107 to 105 incidents.

Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last week, reports of assault went from 117 to 122, and shootings rose from one to six.

There were 207 reports of "other" crimes, a decrease of 10 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, 132 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from 151 reported arrests the week before.

Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, Central Business District, Shadyside and Southside Flats had the most reported incidents last week. Central Business District and Southside Flats were at the top of the list the previous week as well.

Strip District experienced the largest drop in crime. Crime reports in Homewood South also fell, after increasing the week before, and incidents in Beltzhoover are down considerably as well.

Regarding when most crimes are committed, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday had the most reported crimes last week. The largest decrease from the previous week occurred on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, while incidents on Tuesday and Saturday went up. Comparing times of day, late morning, 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.