Do Drug Crimes Increase Around the Holidays?

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration. At the same time, it can also be a stressful time of year for many people. The research shows that drug use—and, as a consequence—drug offenses—actually spike during the holidays. Here, our Stuart, FL, drug crimes defense lawyer explains what we know about the rate of drug-related charges during the holidays and highlights three steps to take if you are arrested and charged with such an offense.

The Research: Drug Use During the Holidays

According to research cited by Atrium Health, “studies have shown an increased number of people rely on drugs and alcohol to cope with various problems they feel are amplified during the holiday season.” Indeed, Sunflower Recovery reports that an organization called Axial Healthcare conducted a review of records involving more than 100 million people and found that there was a 22% spike in drug use between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.

Why does drug use tend to spike during the holiday season? Researchers find that there are a number of different factors that can play a role. Some common issues include family conflicts, financial pressures, and feelings of loneliness. Further, for some people, the holidays trigger a desire to escape or cope with difficult memories. That can lead to an increased reliance on drugs.

Of course, by definition, more drug use means more distribution. There is generally an increase in drug-related criminal charges during the holiday season. Some law enforcement agencies even conduct targeted operations during the holiday season in order to combat drug crimes. A person may be arrested and charged with a possession, manufacturing, or trafficking offense.

What to Do if You are Arrested for a Drug Charge this Holiday Season

Facing an arrest for any drug-related charge is stressful. These are serious crimes in Florida. A conviction for a drug-based criminal offense can bring very serious penalties with it, including incarceration. A proactive approach is a must. Here are four steps to take if you were arrested and charged with a drug crime in Stuart or elsewhere in South Florida:

• Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: You are not required to answer any questions from police or prosecutors during or after an arrest for a drug-related criminal offense. If you are arrested for a drug charge this holiday season, you need to remember to exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Police officers are trained to get people to say things that will incriminate them.
• Save Anything Relevant to Your Defense: The burden of proof rests on the shoulders of the prosecution in any criminal case. Drug charges are no exception. With that being said, it is still crucial that you build a proactive defense. Gather and preserve any evidence that could support your defense if you are arrested for a drug charge.
• Consult With a Drug Crimes Attorney: You do not have to navigate the criminal justice process alone. You should consult with an experienced Stuart, FL, drug crimes attorney if you are arrested for a drug charge this holiday season. An attorney can explain your rights, analyze the details of your case, and help you determine what needs to be done next.
• Determine the Best Defense Strategy: Every case is different. Some drug charges require an aggressive defense focused on getting the case dismissed. Other charges are handled by focusing on limiting penalties and seeking any potential treatment options. Your lawyer will help you determine the right defense strategy for your specific case.

Why Trust Our Stuart, FL Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer

Drug charges can carry very serious criminal penalties in Florida. In fact, even a first-time drug possession offense could potentially be a felony that carries jail time. You need to take immediate action to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future if you are arrested for a drug crime this holiday season. Denise Miller is a top-rated Stuart criminal defense lawyer with the skills and experience to take on the full range of drug-related charges in Martin County.

Contact Our Stuart Drug Offense Defense Attorney Today

At The Law Office of Denise Miller, PA, our Stuart, FL, criminal defense lawyer handles all types of drug charges, including possession, distribution, and manufacturing cases. Call us now or contact us online to set up your completely confidential, no-obligation initial consultation. From our office in Stuart, we defend drug charges in Martin County and throughout South Florida.