Summer Is Coming!
In 2019, Crime in America completed a study that revealed that from May through August, violent crime rates tend to rise by approximately 5.7%. A 2014 study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics highlights a trend in seasonal patterns, highlighting that certain crimes were more likely to be committed during the summer than in any other month.
As many kids are dreaming of that final bell ringing to allow summer vacation to roll in, we must begin to brace ourselves for a rise in more than just the temperature. Florida is no stranger to high temperatures during the summer months, and as tourism spikes and children enter summer vacation, we must do what we can to protect our families from the heat and crime.
Many reasons circulate for why there are higher crimes in the summer.
Yet, these are the most common reasons:
1. High Temperatures
It has been well established for decades that warm weather months are associated with higher crime rates, such as violent crimes and disorderly conduct. As the weather improves, more people are inclined to socialize and come together for various events. At the neighborhood barbecue or weekend birthday party, arguments get as hot as the temperatures and escalate into violent encounters. However, the question is why? It has been concluded that at higher temperatures, hostility and aggression increase. Due to the lack of comfort in the heat, higher temperatures lead to agitation. As patience wears thin, people’s reactions become more immediate.
2. Summer Vacation
The summer season brings longer days, higher temperatures, children are out of school, and vacations are planned. The reasons for the temperature have been discussed. Each of these other factors can also contribute to robberies, assaults, and other violent crimes.
During the summer in Florida, there are more tourists, which contributes to the increase in social interaction and foot traffic. When Floridians leave for their vacations, they also leave an empty house behind. Furthermore, juvenile offenses tend to increase during the summer months due to the fact that youth are out of school unsupervised and have nothing else to do so they tend to get into trouble and commit crimes.
3. Alcohol Consumption
In general, holiday weekends are marked by food, social interaction, and alcohol consumption. Among all the holidays throughout the year, the Fourth of July has the highest rate of fatal DUI accidents, with 57% of fatalities happening during that particular weekend. The consumption of alcohol and other influencers can result in a decrease in inhibitions, an increase in irritability, and an increase in impulsivity. Combined, these factors may increase the likelihood of an individual being involved in a serious crime.
Do not let the summer get too out of hand.
Gain a better understanding of seasonal patterns and the various crimes that may be committed, as well as their associated penalties. Watch the news, pay attention to social media and more importantly if you have teenage kids or young adults still in school keep your thumb on the pulse of what they are up to. Follow their social media channels, pay attention to their behaviors, who they are hanging out with and what the heck? Read their text messages! Why not? After all, you are their parent.
Common summer crimes and their penalties.
A large number of crimes occur during the summer which can be violent and dangerous in nature; however, these three hits upon some of the most common.
1. Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and driving do not mix. In 2022, 40% of fatal accidents were connected to the consumption of alcohol. Under Florida law, Driving under the Influence is an offense where the operator of a motor vehicle is impaired of their normal faculties or has an unlawful level of alcohol in their system. While many DUIs are classified as a misdemeanor, the charge may be escalated as a felony for various reasons such as the involvement of manslaughter or serious bodily injury. A first-time offender in Florida could result in a fine up to $1,000, 6 months in jail, and the possible loss of driving privileges.
2. Robbery or Larceny
The nature of robbery and larceny is similar. Larceny, or theft, refers to the unlawful removal of property, while robbery refers to the violent theft of property or money. Nevertheless, the most significant difference between the two crimes is their respective penalties. According to the value of the property stolen, larceny may be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. A robbery, however, is a felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison, probation, and fines totaling up to $10,000, if convicted.
3. Aggravated Assault
As defined in Florida, an aggravated assault involves the use of a deadly weapon with the intent to kill and/or commit a felony. As a result of the offender’s intentional actions, the victim has suffered serious physical harm. This type of crime is often punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence. As a third-degree felony, aggravated assault is punishable by up to five years imprisonment, a $5,000 fine, or probation in Florida. It is important to note that, as with most felonies, harsher penalties may be imposed based on a variety of factors.
Do your best to make wise decisions.
Ensure that you do not find yourself in an uncomfortable situation. Here are a few tips to protect yourself during the summer season.
1. Consume your alcohol in moderation.
It is important to recognize that alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment. The risks associated with drinking are numerous and complex. You should avoid the possibility of preventable arguments and the dangerous journey of lowered inhibitions and greater irritability that follows.
2. Secure your vehicle and home.
Avoid making yourself an easy target. Practice common safety acts by remember and checking that you have locked your car and your home. Reducing the chances that you may become a victim.
3. Do not engage in aggressive behavior.
Pay attention to your surrounds and the people around you. Listen to your instincts and if passions seem to be rising, it may be best to disengage. Remove yourself from the situation and choose to take the higher road.
Has the rising temperature gotten to you?
Contact us immediately if you or a loved one has been arrested for committing a crime this season. Contact us at 407-841-3646 if you require fast bail bonds. Our office is located in the Cox Plaza in Orlando, Florida, across from the Orange County Jail.
