As the holidays are upon us, we plan for gift-giving, celebrations and time spent with loved ones. Indeed, it is the most wonderful time of the year…and perhaps the most dangerous as well. With parties, family, and alcohol abound, bad decisions put many people on the naughty list during the holiday season. According to Find Law Blotter, here are the top five crimes that spike during the holiday season and how to avoid them to stay on the nice list!
Drunk Driving
With holiday parties and alcohol-a-flowing, many people get caught up in the fun and get behind the wheel under the influence. If your holiday party has you rockin’ around the Christmas tree a little too hard, call someone to pick you up or make sure you have a responsible designated driver ahead of time. Don’t bring in the new year with a brand-new arrest.
Domestic Abuse
While there’s no place like home for the holidays, spending time with family often comes with added stress and heightened emotions. Add in alcohol and bad decisions can and do happen. Many organizations report a spike in domestic abuse and shelter services during the holidays. Before coming home for Christmas, make sure you know how to diffuse domestic situations responsibly and walk away.
Shoplifting
With pressure to buy gifts for your loved ones, friends and, don’t forget the mailman, it’s no surprise that shoplifting is on the rise during the holidays. But before you walk out of Target without going through the checkout line, remember the adage, “It’s the thought that counts.” A homemade card or ornament is certainly better than a call from jail.
Car Theft
New Year’s Eve is one of the top days for drinking and driving, but New Year’s Day is the top day for auto theft. While leaving your car at the bar after too many egg nogs is always a better decision than driving under the influence, thieves may take advantage of your decision and take a joy ride in your car. Perhaps find a ride to the bar as well? And should you be tempted to be the one jumping into a car that is not your own, you may find more than a lump of coal in your stocking.
Vandalism
So, your neighbor has one too many illuminated reindeer guiding Santa’s sleigh along with 247 inflated snowmen. While his Christmas spirit may be a little too merry and bright, this is not an invitation for you to go into his yard and take Frosty…or melt, shoot or slash Frosty. Before trespassing and getting a record, try working with your homeowner’s association first. Or just take a deep breath and close your blinds.
We know that no one wants to be on the naughty list during the holidays, but should you find yourself there, we are here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including Christmas and New Year’s Eve. With four locations across Metro Atlanta, our hardworking “elves” are ready to assist you any time of day, any day of the year.
