12 Common Christmas Crimes in the UK

Why Crime Increases During the Christmas Period

Several factors contribute to higher levels of crime during the festive period. 

Large numbers of people attend social events and Christmas parties, where alcohol consumption is often higher than usual. This can lead to incidents involving assault, public disorder, or drink driving. 

Retail activity also peaks during December. Busy shopping environments can lead to increased shoplifting and theft offences. 

None of this excuses criminal behaviour. However, it helps explain why certain offences are more commonly investigated at this time of year.

12 Common Christmas Crimes in the UK

Below are some of the most common offences that tend to increase during the festive season. 

Drink Driving

Drink driving is one of the most serious festive-season offences.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is illegal to drive or attempt to drive a vehicle while over the legal alcohol limit. 

Police frequently run targeted drink-driving campaigns during the festive season. Convictions can result in: 

• Driving disqualification 
• Fines 
• Community orders 
• Imprisonment in serious cases 

Shoplifting

Busy shops, seasonal pressure and crowded retail spaces can lead to theft allegations.

Shoplifting is typically prosecuted as theft under the Theft Act 1968. 

Penalties can include: 

• Fines 
• Community orders 
• Imprisonment for more serious cases 

Retailers may rely on CCTV, store staff evidence and security records.

Assault at Christmas Parties

Workplace parties and festive nights out can sometimes lead to allegations of assault.

Even relatively minor altercations can result in criminal charges such as: 

• Common assault 
• Assault occasioning actual bodily harm

Domestic Violence

Christmas can be a difficult period for some households, and police may be called to incidents involving partners, ex-partners, or family members.

Domestic abuse offences can involve: 

• Physical assault 
• Coercive or controlling behaviour 
• Harassment 

These cases are treated seriously and may lead to arrest, bail conditions, protective measures and court proceedings.

Public Disorder

Town centres, bars and public transport can become busy during festive nights out.

Police may investigate behaviour such as:

• Drunk and disorderly behaviour 
• Threatening behaviour 
• Public order offences 

These are typically prosecuted under the Public Order Act 1986. 

Criminal Damage

Damage to property during nights out, parties, disputes, or domestic incidents may lead to criminal damage allegations.

This offence is governed by the Criminal Damage Act 1971. 

Even relatively low-value damage can become a criminal matter if reported to police.

Fraud and Online Scams

Christmas shopping often involves online purchases, deliveries and payment activity.

Common offences include: 

• Fraudulent online sales 
• Payment scams 
• Card fraud 

Fraud offences are governed by the Fraud Act 2006. 

Theft from Workplaces

Busy workplaces, seasonal stock, cash handling and temporary staffing can lead to theft allegations.

Employers often investigate missing stock or cash shortages during busy periods. 

Drug Possession

Drug possession allegations may arise at parties, festivals, private gatherings, nightclubs or traffic stops.

Controlled drug offences fall under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. 

Penalties depend on: 

• The type of drug 
• Quantity 
• Surrounding circumstances 

Burglary

Burglary allegations may arise where homes, shops, storage units, or commercial premises are targeted during the festive period.

Burglary is governed by the Theft Act 1968 and carries significant penalties.

Drunk and Disorderly Behaviour

Drunk and disorderly behaviour may be treated as a lower-level offence, but it can still have consequences.

The outcome may depend on the behaviour, location, level of disruption and whether there are linked allegations.

Driving Without Insurance

The festive period often involves extra travel, borrowing vehicles, driving to parties, or using family cars.

Driving without valid insurance can lead to:

• Penalty points 
• Fines 
• Vehicle seizure

Legal Consequences of Christmas Crimes

An offence committed during a festive event is still treated as a criminal matter.

Possible consequences include:

• Police investigation 
• Arrest 
• Criminal charges 
• Court proceedings 
• Criminal record 

The outcome depends on the allegation, the evidence, previous history, harm caused and whether the matter is admitted or denied.

What To Do If You Are Accused of a Crime Over Christmas

If you are arrested, invited to a police interview, or charged during the festive period, take the matter seriously.

If you are investigated or charged, it is important to obtain advice from an experienced criminal defence solicitor as early as possible. 

A solicitor can: 

• Review the evidence 
• Advise on your legal position 
• Represent you during police investigations 
• Prepare your defence if court proceedings follow 

Speak With a Criminal Defence Solicitor

If you are facing an allegation linked to Christmas, a night out, workplace party, road incident, or family dispute, legal advice should be taken early.

Our criminal defence solicitors represent clients across England and Wales in a wide range of criminal matters. We provide clear advice and strong legal representation throughout the investigation and court process. 

Contact our team to discuss your situation confidentially.