Why Theft Charges Peak During the Holidays

 Posted on December 24, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Typically, the summer months bring more violent crime such as muggings and gang-related shootings. The winter months bring more property crime. Theft, vandalism, and sometimes criminal trespass all tend to increase shortly before major winter holidays. There are a number of reasons for these patterns, which are fairly predictable year after year. Many of these crimes are committed out of desperation or frustration rather than with any real malice or desire to commit a crime. If you are charged with theft, vandalism, or a related offense, you need an experienced Joliet, IL property crime attorney to help you. Courts can be more understanding of minor property offenses around the holidays, especially when your attorney can frame the facts well.

People Struggle Financially Around the Holidays 

Financial difficulties have always been a great driver of shoplifting and theft. Even families who are generally financially secure for most of the year can experience hardship around the winter holidays. There are a lot of extra expenditures, like presents for others, special foods for holiday meals, and seasonal items like new winter coats for children who outgrow them every year. This can motivate people who would not normally steal to try to shoplift some of the items they need but cannot afford.

The Crowds Make Shoplifting Easier 

It is much easier to steal from a store that is packed full of people than a store that is nearly empty. During the holiday shopping season, people flock to shopping malls and big box stores. The staff at busy stores is often so busy helping other customers that they are less likely to notice someone walking out with unpaid merchandise. Due to the volume of shoppers, stores are often disorganized, leading to security lapses.

Young People Are Home and Bored

Teenagers and very young adults have always accounted for a fairly large portion of thefts. During the winter holidays, teens and college-aged adults are usually on break from school. They are home for the holidays - and often looking for something to do other than sit around talking to grandma and grandpa. Young people in groups can make poor decisions. Stealing a neighbor’s holiday decorations, vandalizing a public lights display, or breaking a department store’s windows may seem like fun at the moment until someone gets arrested.

Contact a Will County, IL Property Crimes Lawyer 

McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC is experienced in representing people charged with theft, shoplifting, vandalism, and related offenses. Our dedicated Joliet, IL property crimes attorneys will do all we can to help keep a lapse in judgment during a stressful time from having a long-lasting and serious impact. Contact us at 815-727-0100 for a complimentary consultation.