Top Crimes Committed Over The Holidays
As we approach the holiday season, we hope that it is a season of joy and peace, but for some people, it does not pan out to be the best time of the year. The reality is that with increased stress over family, money, and expectations, the number of crime-involved arrests increases.
Let’s take at the top crimes committed over the holiday season:
- Shoplifting
It is easy to see why shoplifting is one of the top holiday crimes committed. As everyone has gifts on their mind both for themselves and others, it becomes easier to want to justify obtaining gifts even if you do not have the money for them. Shoplifting can seem incredibly tempting, but believe us, it is not worth it.
In Arizona, shoplifting comes with serious consequences, including incarceration, fines, and civil penalties. The severity of your charge is determined by the value of the property shoplifted, and the amount of alleged shoplifting incidents and ranges from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 4 felony. Shoplifting also comes with restitution requirements or civil penalties and you will be required to pay the store owner back for actual damages, a penalty in the amount of the retail value of the merchandise; and an additional $250 penalty.
It’s important to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible following a shoplifting arrest to ensure your rights are protected from the beginning of your charges.
- DUI
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that Thanksgiving and Christmas rank amongst the highest days of the year for the number of drunk driving fatalities, this makes a driving under the influence one of the biggest holiday crimes. As you travel to gather with family this holiday season, be very aware of the amount you are drinking and your plan to return home. Not having a plan will get you into trouble and will end your holiday celebrations sitting behind bars instead of in the comfort of your own home.
Law enforcement officers are aware of the amount of drinking that takes place during the holidays and they are vigilant about patrolling roads to keep them safe. Being arrested for a DUI can result in significant jail time, penalties, court fines, and treatment.
If you have been arrested for a DUI, contact a criminal defense attorney to help you protect your rights and represent you as you navigate the legal process.
- Domestic Violence
The increased stress surrounding the holidays can lead to explosive interactions between spouses and other family members. These interactions often quickly escalate and lead to the police being called and one or more persons being charged with assault, disorderly conduct, threatening and more. In Arizona, there is no specific charge for “domestic violence” but instead it is a designation added to another charge, such as assault.
The penalties for domestic violence vary greatly depending on the crime associated with your case. In most cases, domestic violence crimes are Class 1 misdemeanors which is the highest classification for a misdemeanor in Arizona. The maximum penalty for a Class 1 misdemeanor is up to 6 months in jail, fines, a fee of $2,500, and counseling.
Being charged with a domestic violence crime is not something to take lightly and can greatly affect your future, which is why contacting a criminal defense attorney right away is critical to protecting your rights.
We Are Here To Help – Phoenix Felony Attorney
Litwak Law Group’s criminal defense attorney team focuses on fighting aggressively and professionally for your rights. If you have been charged with a crime this holiday season and need skilled representation, contact our office today.
