5 Most Common Crimes Committed on Halloween
Halloween is supposed to be a night filled with costumes, candy, and celebrations across Texas. Unfortunately, it is also one of the busiest nights of the year for police officers. Crowded parties and late-night activity, among other factors, can all increase the chances of criminal charges on this special occasion. If you or a loved one is arrested on Halloween, it is important to understand the most common charges that arise and how Texas law treats them.
1. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
DWI arrests surge on Halloween because of the number of parties and alcohol involved. Under Texas Penal Code § 49.04, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. The state defines intoxication as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or not having normal use of physical or mental faculties due to alcohol or drugs. Penalties can include thousands in fines, loss of your driver’s license, and possible jail time. For repeat offenders or accidents involving children, the consequences are even more severe. Police often set up sobriety checkpoints and increase patrols around Halloween, making DWI charges one of the most common offenses.
2. Disorderly Conduct
Halloween parties can sometimes get out of hand, leading to charges of disorderly conduct. Texas Penal Code § 42.01 outlines this offense, which includes fighting in public, making unreasonable noise, displaying a firearm to cause alarm, or using abusive language likely to provoke violence. What may feel like harmless rowdiness at a party could quickly escalate into a criminal charge. A misdemeanor disorderly conduct conviction, which might seem minor on the surface, can still leave you with a permanent record that may affect employment and housing opportunities.
3. Vandalism and Criminal Mischief
Pranks are common on Halloween, but some cross the line into criminal mischief under Texas Penal Code § 28.03. Damaging property (such as spray-painting buildings or egging cars) can result in charges. The seriousness of the offense usually depends on the value of the damage. Minor acts might be classified as misdemeanors, but larger property damage can lead to felony charges. Parents should be aware that juveniles are often charged with vandalism on Halloween, which can have lasting consequences even for minors.
4. Theft
Halloween’s disguises and the movement of people at night sometimes create opportunities for theft. Theft, under Texas Penal Code § 31.03, involves unlawfully taking property with the intent to deprive the owner of it. While some cases involve petty theft, such as stealing decorations or unattended belongings, others may escalate to serious charges with prison time. These cases often result in aggressive prosecution because of Texas’s tough stance on property crimes.
5. Assault
Alcohol, large gatherings, and disputes can also result in assault charges on Halloween. Under Texas Penal Code § 22.01, assault includes causing bodily injury and merely threatening someone with imminent harm as well. Depending on the severity of the injury and whether a weapon was involved, assault can range from a misdemeanor to a felony charge.
Contact Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law, PLLC for a Confidential Consultation
Halloween should be a fun holiday, but it often results in increased criminal charges in Texas. The most common offenses include DWI, disorderly conduct, vandalism, theft, and assault. Each of these charges carries serious consequences that can affect your future freedoms substantially. If you are arrested on Halloween night, understanding the law is the first step. The next step is seeking legal representation. Contact an experienced Texas criminal defense lawyer at Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law, PLLC for a consultation.
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