Every year, millions of people celebrate Halloween by dressing up in costumes, going to parties, and trick-or-treating. However, Halloween is also a night when crime rates tend to spike. According to the National Crime Prevention Council, reports of violent crime are 31 percent higher on Halloween than on any other night of the year. To help keep you safe this Halloween, we’ve compiled a list of the most common reasons people get arrested on Halloween.
1. Drunk Driving
One of the most common crimes committed on Halloween is drunk driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Halloween consistently ranks among the deadliest nights for impaired driving incidents, with alcohol-related traffic fatalities occurring at significantly higher rates than typical evenings. Law enforcement agencies across the country increase patrols and sobriety checkpoints during Halloween weekend to combat this dangerous trend. If you’re planning on consuming alcohol during Halloween celebrations, always arrange for a designated driver, use rideshare services, or take public transportation home.
2. Public Intoxication
Another common reason people get arrested on Halloween is public intoxication.
Image result for public intoxication in Arizona. Although Arizona does not have a specific law that prohibits or criminalizes public intoxication, intoxicated people can commit a crime while in public if they engage in some type of illegal behavior. If you’re caught drinking in a public place, you could be fined or even arrested. So if you’re planning on drinking at a Halloween party, make sure it’s held in a private residence.
3. Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is another common offense committed on Halloween night. Disorderly conduct includes any behavior that disturbs the peace or violates public decency laws. This can include things like urinating in public, fighting, or playing loud music. If you’re caught engaging in disorderly conduct, you could be fined or arrested.
4. Theft
Theft is by far the most common reason why people get arrested on Halloween. According to the National Retail Federation, shoplifting and theft account for nearly 60 percent of all property crimes on Halloween night. It’s also common for individuals to get arrested for robbery and household break-ins.
Facing Criminal Charges on Halloween
While Halloween is a fun time for many people, it’s important to remember that crime rates do tend to spike during this holiday. If you want to avoid getting arrested this Halloween, be sure not to drink and drive, drink in public places, or engage in disorderly conduct.
If you find yourself in handcuffs on Halloween night, it is vital to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Our team at Suzuki Law Offices can analyze your charges and help create a strong defense on your behalf.
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