With 2019 on the way, many people are looking for ways to celebrate. They may attend a house party, go bar-hopping or watch the ball drop at home. Regardless, it is important to be as safe and responsible as possible during the New Year’s celebration.
People who partake in illegal activities may end up with fines, jail time and a criminal record. Here are some of the most common New Year offenses.
1. Car theft
When asked what they think the most common crime is on New Year’s Day, most people may say driving under the influence. However, the most prevalent crime is auto theft. There were 2,469 vehicle thefts on New Year’s Day in 2017.
2. Driving under the influence of alcohol
Of course, drunk driving is still a serious problem for this holiday. People who are planning to drink alcohol to ring in the New Year should take these steps to avoid getting a DUI:
- Arrange another ride home with a sober driver, taxi or ridesharing app
- Spend the night with a friend or at a hotel
- Eat plenty of food while drinking; this may slow down the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream
3. Public intoxication
Those who are celebrating in a public place are at risk of receiving a citation for public drunkenness. If individuals appear drunk, annoy people nearby and pose a danger to themselves or those around them, the police may give them a hefty fine to pay.
4. Drug possession
Many people celebrate the holiday chasing a high. Regardless of the illicit substance used, a person can face hard criminal punishments for possessing drugs during the celebration.
Part of the rise in offenses reported may be due to the increased efforts of police through more patrols and enforcement during the holiday season.
