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5 Most Common Crimes Committed on Halloween

Posted on by JACK MKHITARIAN

halloweenHalloween brings out the ghosts, goblins, and everything spooky, but it also brings something else – a spike in criminal activity. Halloween sees more crimes committed, but the crimes are not as heinous as you might assume. Instead, they are often juveniles being juveniles, or adults forgetting that they have had a few too many drinks to drive.

Regardless, if you plan to go out and enjoy the festivities of Halloween, you should be aware of these common crimes. If you are arrested or accused or one, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.

Drunken Driving

Drunken driving is by far the most popular offense seen on Halloween. From the parties at college frat houses to the fun of having witches brew spiked with alcohol, it is no surprise that there are more drunken driving arrests on Halloween.

If you plan to go out and drink, have a designated driver. If you are hosting a party, monitor your guests’ alcohol intake and have Uber or a cab service on standby.

Vandalism

Vandalism is a serious crime, and one that often is committed by juveniles – especially on Halloween. What might seem like an innocent prank could wind up costing you some pretty serious criminal charges. If you are over the age of 18, you cannot seal those charges either, which means you will officially have a criminal record following you around the rest of your life.

Trespassing

During Halloween, you expect trick-or-treaters to walk on your lawn and cut across other people’s property to reach their next candy-seeking destination. However, trespassing can still happen. Sometimes trick-or-treaters and even adults take it too far and venture onto private property when not invited.

Criminal trespass in New Mexico involves entering or remaining on private property without permission of the owner. Doing so can put you at risk for misdemeanor charges, which include jail time for up to one year and a fine of no more than $1,000.

Assault

Assault and battery laws in the state are quite harsh, and because this crime is common during events such as Halloween, the law shows no mercy even for first-time offenders. Fights break out at Halloween parties, domestic disputes tend to increase, and a person may attack another person out of what they think is a prank for Halloween – but results in injuries that can lead to criminal charges.

If you are convicted of assault and battery, you could receive up to six months in jail and harsh fines – not to mention a criminal record.

Kidnapping

Sadly, a common crime on Halloween is kidnapping. With children out and some unsupervised, the risk of a kidnapping is higher. Parents need to keep an eye on their children and teach children to not talk to strangers. If your older kids are trick-or-treating, create a designated area where they can go, and keep it in a familiar neighborhood.

Arrested for a Crime on Halloween? Contact an NM Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one was arrested for a crime on Halloween, it is imperative that you speak with a defense attorney. These crimes put you at risk not only for jail time and fines, but a criminal record that could make it impossible to get a job, qualify for financial aid, or even enter the military.

To explore your defense options, contact the attorneys at New Mexico Criminal Law Offices today by calling 505-375-4765 or connect with us online.