The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration for many, but it can also be a time of increased criminal activity. As we gather with loved ones and exchange gifts, criminals may see an opportunity to take advantage of the hustle and bustle that comes with this time of year. In particular, felonies tend to spike during the holidays, making it important for everyone to be aware of potential risks and how to protect themselves.
Common Holiday Felonies
Package Theft
With the rise of online shopping, more and more packages are being delivered to homes during the holiday season. Unfortunately, this also means an increase in package thefts. Thieves often follow delivery trucks and snatch packages from doorsteps when no one is home. To prevent package theft, consider having packages delivered to your workplace or a neighbor's house if you won't be home to receive them.
Burglary
Homes are often targeted for burglaries during the holidays when families are away visiting relatives or attending parties. Burglars look for signs that a house is unoccupied, such as piled-up mail or newspapers. To deter burglars, ensure your home looks lived in while you're away by putting lights on timers and asking a trusted neighbor to monitor your property.
Car Break-Ins
Parking lots at malls and shopping centers can be hotspots for car break-ins during the holidays. Thieves target vehicles filled with shopping bags or visible valuables left behind by distracted shoppers. Keep your car doors locked at all times, park in well-lit areas, and hide any valuables out of sight.
Identity Theft
The holiday season also sees an increase in identity theft cases as criminals try to steal personal information from unsuspecting shoppers making purchases online or in stores. Be cautious when providing personal information online, and regularly check your bank statements for any unauthorized charges.
Drunk Driving
The holiday season is notorious for an increase in drunk driving incidents as people attend parties where alcohol is served freely. If you plan on drinking during holiday celebrations, have a designated driver or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get home safely.
Augustine Felony Defense Attorney
Our team at Canan Law is ready to help. If you or a loved one is facing felony charges, especially during the holiday season, it's important to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney.
Don't let criminal charges ruin your holiday season – contact us online or call (904) 849-2266 today for a free consultation.
