The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, time spent with family, and celebrating with others. Unfortunately, the stress of the holidays could result in bad decision making. Between financial strain, an increase in alcohol consumption, and having extra family time, it’s easy for things to go from jolly to jail time.

Here are the most common crimes that occur over the holidays:

Driving under the influence (DUI):
People are enjoying holiday parties this time of year and usually the alcohol is flowing as well. While it is fine to imbibe, make sure that you don’t drink and drive. Appoint a designated driver, order a taxi, or use a rideshare to get home. The police will be out patrolling and there is a possibility of sobriety checkpoints. If you are arrested and charged with DUI, you could face fines, jail time, and having your license suspended.

Theft and Shoplifting:
Don’t help yourself to “free gifts” when shopping at a store. Retail stores have increased security during the holidays and will prosecute shoplifters. Cameras are everywhere! Purse and wallet theft is still a thing and you will get charged if you are caught. No gift is worth having a permanent record so leave the pick pocketing to someone else.

Domestic Violence:
Family time is great until it isn’t. Being together 24/7, financial stress, different opinions, and an uptick in alcohol use could all cause trouble to boil over into physical aggression. A domestic violence charge is serious and can lead to a restraining order, jail time, and long-term consequences. Step away, take a break, and think before reacting or your holiday could be spent in jail.

Burglary:
Empty homes and porches with packages make prime targets. Make sure to secure your home before traveling. Lock up, put your lights on timers and have a trusted friend retrieve your packages. Better yet, have your packages sent to a friend’s house, to a “locker”, or to your final destination. Don’t come home to an empty Christmas tree.

Drug Offenses:
Holiday parties sometimes involve recreational drugs. Instead of BYOB it can be a BYOD (bring your own drug). You might be encouraged to let loose and celebrate but don’t do it. Drug possession or even worse drug trafficking can carry severe penalties. For example, drug possession penalties can range from 1 year to up to 30 years in jail, fines from $1,000 to $10,000, a permanent criminal record for a felony, and could lead to loss of civil rights.

For drug trafficking, the penalties are more severe. Generally, this is a first-degree felony and carries a mandatory minimum prison term. The penalties increase with the amount of the controlled substance.

Don’t let a fun night turn into a prison sentence.
At 33rd Street Bail Bonds, we’ve seen it all and we are here to help! We understand that things happen. If you or someone you love ends up on the naughty list and behind bars, please call us at 407-425-3303.

We have helped clients throughout Central Florida including those living in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Volusia, and Lake Counties. Our bail bond agents are all experienced and knowledgeable. Rely on us to help you navigate the ins and outs of the bail bond process. We are here 24/7 including the holidays.

At 33rd Street Bail Bonds we know how important it is to be home for the holidays. If you or your loved one needs us, we’re here. Don’t spend your holiday in jail, call us today at 407-425-3303!

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