Crimes on All-Hallows-Eve
American celebrations of Halloween date back to the late 19th century. Everyone, from adults to teenagers to young children, participates in Halloween by donning costumes, going door to door, carving pumpkins, telling scary tales, and eating candy. However, “All-Hallows-Eve” is not only a night for parties and pranks. Even though 175 million Americans will be celebrating Halloween tonight, the crime rate is expected to rise by as much as 50 percent.
Most Common Halloween Crimes
The six most frequent crimes committed on Halloween night are as follows:
Alcohol-Related Crimes – Many high school and college Halloween parties include alcohol. Sadly, many partygoers are detained for driving under the influence or causing severe or deadly crashes with other cars. A DWI may result in prison time, fines, license suspension, and various other punishments with lasting effects. Those who wish to drink alcohol must find another means of transportation or a location to spend the night.
Sexual assault – It is typical for both men and women to be sexually exploited while they are inebriated due to their incapacity to think properly and grant permission. Sexual assault is a severe crime that may result in years of imprisonment. If you want to imbibe on Halloween night, keep track of the number of drinks you consume and only fetch your beverages on your own to prevent being a victim of date rape. Remember, no means no.
Assault – Fights often break out during Halloween parties due to an alcoholic altercation or a practical joke. Assault is punished by lengthy prison terms and hefty penalties if convicted.
Vandalism -These behaviors constitute vandalism: defacing a whole residence with toilet paper or hurling eggs. The act of striking a person with an item is assault. Since minors frequently commit this criminal act, a court appearance and juvenile probation may result. Therefore, instruct your children to store eggs in the refrigerator and toilet paper in the bathroom. The following sanctions may be applicable:
Trespassing – Some trick-or-treaters, including some adults, enter private property without permission. Entering and residing on private property without the owner’s consent is criminal trespass. Criminal trespass is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment and penalties.
Abduction – Predators feel Halloween night is the ideal time to abduct and exploit unaccompanied youngsters. It is suggested to accompany your children while they go trick-or-treating. Parents must educate their children about stranger danger. If your children are older than their years, you should suggest that they go out in a big group.
How to Avoid Being a Victim of Halloween Crimes
- First, you must be alert. Recognizing danger is the first step toward overcoming it. After that, do what has to be done to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property:
- Leave the lights on if you’re going to be gone any time. Any would-be intruders would likely believe someone is home if they see this.
- Don’t update your social media till you get back. Even if your children or dogs look adorable in their costumes at the Halloween party across town, you shouldn’t broadcast the fact that you’ll be away from home by sharing a photo of them on Facebook.
- Remove any precious items from your vehicle. Without a garage, you must remove any valuables from your vehicle.
- Even inside, don’t forget to lock up your house. After dishing out candy to a horde of young monsters, it’s easy to forget to shut the door. However, a thief will have little trouble sneaking in once you leave.
- Put expensive items out of sight. A thief can see your flat-screen TV from the entryway if trick-or-treaters can.
- Enroll in a home security system with monitoring.
How to Respond If Arrested on Halloween?
When arrested, know your rights.
Stay silent. Your case is at a critical point. Declare your intention to use this privilege. Do not talk to the police if you’re arrested. No matter the accusation or how the police frame their investigation, keeping quiet is preferable to prevent future repercussions. If you must speak, ask your lawyer.
You deserve legal representation. If arrested, get a lawyer. You may be free to leave if you’re not arrested or imprisoned. This is vital. If arrested on Halloween, get a lawyer quickly.
You don’t have to consent to search your person or belongings, but authorities may pat down your outerwear if they suspect you’re hiding contraband, such as a gun. It would be best if you didn’t fight, but you may decline more searches.
- Related Articles:
- Common Crimes That Happen During Black Friday
- Common Crimes on the Fourth of July
- School Safety: What’s the Most Common Crime on College Campuses?
If you think your rights were violated, file a police report or see an attorney.
Note the officer’s badge and name.
Need an Attorney? CALL NOW: 310-274-6529
Seppi Esfandi is an Expert Attorney who has over 21 years of practice defending a variety of cases.
