Crimes At the Holidays: Not Just An Act For The Grinch

person committing a crime during the holidays

While the Grinch may have stolen Christmas, there will be other crimes committed this holiday season that we need to be reminded of–especially if you’re the one being accused of the act. The holiday season is often joyful, but if you’ve been charged with a crime or falsely accused, it can turn into not so merry and bright. Take a look at these common holiday crimes and how the criminal defense attorneys Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam can help.

Common Crimes At the Holidays

From stolen deliveries on porches to robberies, there is often an increase in theft crimes during the winter holiday season. However, a Home Alone style burglary while houses sit empty is not the only crime occurring.

Some of the most common holiday crimes include:

  • DUI/DWI
  • Robbery
  • Domestic Violence
  • Fraud
  • Identity Theft

DUI/DWIs at the Holidays

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2018, there were 285 drunk-driving-related fatalities from the Christmas holiday to New Year’s stretch. These deaths are always preventable and if you are the one drinking and driving, you can face hefty penalties and even jail time.

In addition to driving under the influence, NEPA weather can make it increasingly difficult to drive home. Add the use of substances, it’s impossible.

Robbery

Be it the ease of finding gifts under the tree while peering through a window or simply noticing the abundance of packages on a neighbors porch, robberies happen at an increased amount during the holidays.

Given the increase in online shopping this year, there is likely going to be a large spike in stolen packages. In January 2020, a reported 1.7 million stolen or lost packages were reported per day, resulting in approximately $25 million worth of lost items or services.

Domestic Violence

From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, domestic violence call centers across the country experience an increase in calls from victims of sexual, emotional, and physical abuse.

When you add in the stress of the holidays, tight finances, and the opportunity, most abusers will take the chance to abuse their victim. It is believed because more people are home from work during the holidays, and there is increased use of alcohol and drugs.

Fraud

Don’t fa la la fall victim to holiday scams–and don’t participate in their spread either. From fake charities, fraudulent websites, and gift card fraud, ‘tis the season for questionable activity.

Be mindful of where you make purchases, what links you send to family and friends, and what information you use and share.

Identity Theft

On the same theme as fraud, identity theft tends to increase at the holidays as scammers will steal credit card information and personal details. Whether you intentionally or unintentionally use information that does not belong to you, know that the penalties if found guilty can be major — and land you behind bars, not just the naughty list.

Protect Yourself from Holiday Crime Accusations and Charges With MVSK Law

Be it a case of wrong place wrong time, a lapse of judgment, or you were a victim yourself, committing crimes during the holidays is complicated and costly.

If you have been accused of fraud or identity theft, a physical altercation, or charged with a DUI/DWI this holiday season, know the Scranton criminal defense attorneys of Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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