The number of crime incidents in Tampa saw an overall decline last month, for the second month in a row, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects reports from police agencies and validated sources.
Incidents fell by about 12 percent, from 2,619 in August to 2,290 in September. Despite last month's decrease, crime reports remain similar to those seen a year ago. Crime trends often contain recurring patterns, based on seasons and other local events, making it useful to look at the year-over-year comparison as well.
The offenses most on the decline last month were theft and vandalism. Theft fell from 264 reported incidents in August to 204 in September, and has fallen by 100 incidents since September of last year. Vandalism incidents went from 71 to 60 for the month, or about a 15 percent decrease. Vandalism reports are down event more from a year ago.
There was also a sizable percentage decrease last month in robbery, from 14 incidents per month to seven, and in burglary, from 45 to 37. Both robbery and burglary have decreased since the same month last year.
When it comes to crime patterns in different areas of the city, the largest decline last month occurred in East Tampa, Tampa Heights and North Tampa. Riverside Heights, Drew Park and Old West Tampa 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 Northview Hills, and declined the most in Sulphur Springs.
Sundays, Mondays and Saturdays had the most crime incidents last month. The largest decrease from the previous month occurred on Saturdays, Fridays and Tuesdays, while incidents on Mondays and Sundays went up. Comparing times of day, after midnight, early morning and late night 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.
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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.
