Ottawa police see 28% increase in property crimes so far in 2026

An Ottawa police cruiser is seen in this file image. (CTV News Ottawa)

The Ottawa Police Service is reporting an increase in criminal offences in Ottawa so far this year, driven by a 28 per cent jump in property crimes.

The service’s “Safety Snapshot” shows there were 19,430 crimes and criminal offences reported in Ottawa as of May 19, up from 17,840 crimes reported during the same period in 2025.

There have been 13,430 property crimes reported in Ottawa so far this year, up from 12,130 property crimes in 2025.

According to the snapshot, 8,350 crimes for theft under $5,000 have been reported since the start of the year, up from 6,540 crimes for theft $5,000 and under in 2025.

Crimes for thefts $5,000 and under includes shoplifting.

Police are reporting a 35 per cent decrease in break and enter reports, and a 20 per cent drop in motor vehicle thefts. As of May 19, 422 vehicles had been reported stolen in Ottawa, down from 527 motor vehicle thefts in 2025.

There has also been a three per cent increase in violent crimes reported in Ottawa this year, with 3,290 violent crimes between Jan. 1 and May 19. Police are reporting a 24 per cent increase in sexual violations and a three per cent increase in assaults.

The Ottawa Police Service has received 55,960 calls for service from the public so far this year, up from 55,830 calls in 2025. The number of office-initiated calls has increased 20 per cent to 33,670 calls through the first four and a half months this year.

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