Mexican Consulate warns its citizens about rising crime in DC

WASHINGTON — The Consulate of Mexico in Washington is warning its citizens to "take precautions" while in the District due to rising crime issues in the nation's capital.

The Consulate tweeted about its concerns on Monday, saying, "DC is experiencing a significant increase in crime in areas previously considered safe," according to the tweet, which was translated on Twitter.

They told Mexican nationals to "take precautions," and to call 911 in emergencies or call (202) 997-0560 for urgent consular needs.

According to the police department's website, homicides are up 17% so far, with 138 homicides this year as of this writing, while at the same time last year, there were 118. 

Additionally, reports of sex abuse were up 24%, assaults with a dangerous weapon were 5%, and robberies were up 61% This is from data on the police department's website dated July 26, 2023.

The average for all violent crimes in the District had numbers up 37% as of this writing.

Numbers were also higher in 2021.

There were 226 homicides in all of 2021, while there were 203 in 2022 – a reduction of 10%, and violent crimes were down in 2022 compared to 2021, with 7% fewer violent crimes overall. 

Here are the homicide numbers in the District for the last 20 years:

*The citywide 2013 homicide statistics include the 12 victims of the Washington Navy Yard shooting that occurred on Sept. 16, 2013, the police department's website says.