The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but they can also be extremely stressful. Our criminal defense lawyer has seen that there’s often an increase in crime during the holiday season. People are out and about more, which means there’s more opportunity for crime. If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime, our criminal defense lawyer at Sethna Cook can help.
Holiday Stress May Contribute to Crime
It is important to note that holiday stress can lead to problems with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Increased alcohol consumption is also common during this time of year due to social pressures, especially at parties where people may feel they need something stronger than soda or wine in order to fit in with the group.
The holidays are known for their excessive alcohol consumption. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports that the average American drinks over 50 gallons of alcohol per year, and almost half of those people drink every day. Drinking is a part of many holiday traditions, from eggnog at Christmas to cocktails during New Year’s Eve parties.
But why does this increase in drinking lead to an increase in crime? According to research conducted by the University of Iowa College of Public Health, “alcohol use is associated with increased risk for criminal behavior such as violence, property damage and driving under the influence (DUI).” In fact, studies have shown that violent crime increases on days where more alcohol is consumed. This means that when there are more people drinking during the holidays than usual—for example, when coworkers gather at a bar after work—there will be an increase in incidents related to drunkenness or intoxication.
Mental health issues and increased alcohol consumption can lead not only to higher risks of drunk driving but also domestic violence. In addition, robbery and personal larceny increase around the holidays. Although there’s not a clear reason why, it can be speculated that people get desperate to obtain expensive items that are outside their financial means.
When you are out and about during the holidays, make sure you don’t carry around a lot of valuables and that you keep an eye on your surroundings. Be careful with your credit cards and your online shopping habits as well.
If you find yourself charged with theft, DUI, assault, or other crime during the holiday season, please contact our experienced criminal defense lawyer. These charges are significant and you need someone with the passion and skill to protect your rights.
There Are More Unattended Homes, Cars, And People
As the holiday season approaches, there are more people out and about. This increases the chances that there will be more unattended homes and cars. When people leave their homes or vehicles unattended for longer periods of time, they are more likely to leave their doors unlocked or windows open. You might also see an increase in unattended wallets, purses and other valuables left just a little too close to the road you walk down every day.
There are some things you can do to protect yourself at home.
- Make sure all doors and windows are locked.
- Don’t hide spare keys around the house.
- Make sure that dark areas and entrances have outdoor lights that are turned on after dark or are activated by sensors.
- Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed so they do not conceal doors and windows. Also, make sure holiday decor does not hide doors and windows.
- Lock your vehicle and remove all the valuables.
- Ask someone to keep an eye on your home when you are planning on being out.
- Don’t leave garbage out that shows you have purchased new and expensive items.
If you need a criminal defense lawyer, Sethna Cook can help
Overall, crime rates are not as high as they’ve been in the past. However, it is important that we remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent and respond to crimes. This can be accomplished through increased vigilance and taking extra precautions during the holiday season.
We need to take steps towards reducing the risk factors for holiday crimes, such as stress and alcohol consumption; making sure homes and vehicles are secure; avoiding excessive shopping during this time period; and helping those who may be experiencing depression or other mental health issues by ensuring access to treatment options such as therapy sessions or medications when appropriate.
We hope you have a happy holiday and that you don’t need us to represent you or a loved one. However, we are here for those who need a criminal defense lawyer. Contact us today for a consultation.
