Over the holidays, we tend to operate with a heightened set of emotions. Every situation, both good and bad, can feel emphasized or overly dramatic. While everyone hopes to experience the holidays in a positive and healthy way, bad things do happen. Conflicts happen, accidents happen, and of course, crimes are committed. There are certain crimes that spike over the holiday season. When tensions are high, people are more likely to take risks. Unfortunately, many of these risks involve committing a crime. Here is a list of these crimes committed over the holidays.
Theft and Burglary
There’s no doubt that theft is at the top of this holiday crimes list. The holidays are a time to celebrate being with friends and family. However, as a society, it’s also a time that we celebrate having new stuff. Unfortunately, this spike in shopping also leads to a spike in theft. It’s common to make big purchases, like electronics, appliances, or even new cars around this time of year. This makes delivery trucks very appealing to thieves during the holidays. Packages left at doorsteps can be easily stolen, more cars are broken into, and homes are often raided. In addition to being the season of consumerism, it’s also a season of big crowds. When shopping malls or restaurants are packed and people are distracted, it makes it much easier for people to steal.
Driving Under the Influence
Out of all of the crimes committed over the holidays, many people forget about this one. While many define the holidays as a time for shopping and having new things, others simply define it as a celebration. There is no shortage of celebrating when it comes to the holidays. Between office holiday parties and gift-exchanges with friends, there’s more than one day of being merry. This means that there are twice as many people drinking and driving, and your local police are ready for it. DUI’s are incredibly common over the holidays. After getting wrapped up in holiday cheer, too many people will regretfully get behind the wheel. It’s always important to be aware of your blood alcohol level when operating a vehicle, but it’s even more important over the holidays.
Cybercrime
It’s probably no surprise that cybercrime is on our list of crimes committed over the holidays. Today’s technology allows us to handle all of our transactions from the comfort of our own home. There are more people doing their holiday shopping online than ever before. All of our personal information, credit card numbers, social security numbers, and bank accounts become more vulnerable around this time of year. With the onslaught of online purchases during the holidays, it’s easier than ever for hackers to commit cybercrime.
Domestic Violence
As we mentioned in the introduction, the holidays tend to be emotional. People have the tendency to overreact or show irrational behavior during this season. There are many reasons why people feel an intense sense of pressure around this time of year. Finances are often strained. Shared custody situations can be more complicated. Bosses may require overtime work. When tensions and expectations are running this high, it can be an invitation for domestic violence. In addition, people are spending a lot more time with the family than they normally do. This can create a sense of exhaustion, apprehension, and agitation. This makes domestic violence a strong case on our list of crimes committed over the holidays. It’s important to remember to take time to breathe and relax. Despite all of the stress that comes around the holidays, it’s no excuse for violence.
Holiday Fraud
There is no better time for buyers to beware than the holidays. There are thousands of scams happening on every corner, website, or shopping mall. At a time of year when everyone is looking for a deal, it’s easy for someone to want to take advantage of the situation. Selling fake tickets to shows, fake coupons, and fake gift cards are just a few of the common scams you might fall for this season. Some cons have been known to start fake Facebook or Etsy accounts to lure people in to purchase items that they’ll never see.
If You’ve Been Charged with Crimes Committed Over the Holidays
If you or someone you know has been charged with one of these crimes, it’s important to speak to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The holidays are a time to relax and reflect on the passing year. However, it can be difficult to move forward when you have a criminal charge holding you back. In order to find a way to move on, you need to speak with a lawyer. Criminal defense lawyers understand the pressures that are upon us around this time of year. They can assist you in finding the right defense and the right direction forward. Call one today to learn more about your options.
