Does Crime Increase During the Summer?

 Posted on May 03, 2024 in Criminal Defense

As we enter the summer months in Illinois, people start to enjoy the warm weather outdoors and spend time traveling for vacation. However, crime has been shown to spark during the summer months, increasing the likelihood of being involved in criminal behavior.

Instead of letting the heat get to you this summer and catching a criminal charge that affects your future, you should be taking steps to avoid potentially violent situations and keep yourself safe.

Of course, if you are charged with a crime during the summer, an experienced Illinois criminal defense lawyer is essential to helping you defend your case.

Warmer Weather Can Lead to More Crime

While many people enjoy warmer weather and the fun activities summer brings, it has been noted throughout recent years that criminal behaviors increase as the weather warms.

There are many different explanations behind why warmer weather leads to more crime, specifically more violent crime, though numerous studies have narrowed down the following notable reasons:

• Heat – The summer months in Illinois can be very hot, and studies have shown heat to increase aggression and the potential for criminal behavior due to agitation.
• Increased alcohol consumption – Holidays like Memorial Day and July the 4th  occur in summer, leading to large amounts of alcohol consumed, and summer months generally lead to higher alcohol consumption overall; alcohol often contributes to violent crime.
• Increased social interactions and longer days – People tend to spend longer out of their homes in summer, leading to an increased potential for social interactions, including ones that could turn violent.
• No school – Teens and other individuals who would typically be in school are out during summer, leading to greater freedom and increased chances for criminal behavior to occur.

Avoiding a Criminal Charge This Summer

Your summer months in Illinois do not need the addition of an arrest or criminal charge, as this will do more than ruin your summer – it can affect your future. Work to avoid a criminal charge this summer by paying attention to how much alcohol you consume, being aware of your surroundings, and moving away from situations that have the potential to result in criminal behavior.

If you find yourself becoming heated this summer, take some time to cool down and remove yourself from a situation where criminal behavior may become a factor.

Contact an Aurora, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

Dealing with a criminal charge alone can be difficult, and if you find yourself facing criminal charges, you will need to contact an experienced Kane County, IL criminal defense attorney. At The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola, Attorney Brian J. Mirandola is a former Assistant State’s Attorney with the unique experience needed to defend any criminal charge you might be facing. Call 847-488-0889 for a free consultation.