Summer heat brings rise in crime, local law enforcement increase patrols

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Rising temperatures during summer months have been linked to an increase in crime rates across the nation, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Additional data from Governing states that, on average, monthly crime for seven major offense types increased nearly 10 percent between June and August from the rest of the year.

The St. Joseph Police Department and the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office said they tend to increase patrols during the summer months.

SJPD see a slight increase in crime over the summer.

"It's not as dramatic as people think it is. It's more of a gradual climb, but it is more crime per se, during the warmer months," Stephaine Insell said.

Whereas the BCSO sees an increase in calls of service.

"We do see an increased activity level with just everybody," Michael Hess said. More people are out and about. There not cooped up in the house for the cold weather."

SJPD data shows 4 crimes that tend to increase during the summer including burglary, vehicle theft, aggravated assault and property damage.

Both law enforcement agencies has already seen an increase in their call load.

"Our self initiated calls gone up. That allows us to get involved and do a lot of more proactive stuff which is getting our numbers up," Insell said. The increase in the 911 calls come as the summer months and school let out summer months go get warmer.

Over the past month with the warmer weather we’ve already seen an increase in the basic calls of service stuff," Hess said. Meaning more check vehicle things like that and that simply can be attributed to people going out fishing along rivers, creeks, banks, things like that.

Insell offers tips on staying safe during the summer.

"Just making sure your vehicle is secured. Park where there's cameras. At nighttime make sure there is plenty of lighting. Motion lights are good because they usually scare people off. Don't keep valuables in your vehicles. Keep your home lock. Watch your kids if they are out and make sure their home before dark. Nothing good happens after dark. Pay attention to your surroundings. If you see something, say something," Insell said.

The first day of summer is June 21.