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Do New Jersey Shore Crime Rates Increase in the Summer Months?
Every summer, thousands of visitors descend upon the popular towns along New Jersey’s beautiful and busy shoreline. The population of the state’s 22 coastal towns can double to over 900,000 between the months of May and September. Locations such as Monmouth Beach, Long Branch, and Asbury Park boast family-friendly beaches and boardwalks in addition to a variety of events and activities.
Crime rates tend to increase along with the heat and crowds that flock to the New Jersey shore each year. Whether an offense is relatively minor or something more serious, all defendants face potential penalties and other consequences for violating the law. If have been charged with assault, a DUI, or another crime, it is critical to work with an experienced Jersey Shore lawyer to protect your rights and best interests.
Why Does Criminal Activity Increase in the Summer?
Hot temperatures mixed with alcohol, loud parties, and crowds make the New Jersey shore a prime place for criminal activity. Excited teenagers who visit the Jersey shore in the summertime may leave their good judgement at home. Large concentrations of adults in small places is another recipe for disaster when it comes to criminal activity. Some offenders may target the New Jersey shore in the summer, while others find themselves in unexpected situations.
Most shore towns in New Jersey amp up their law enforcement in the summer. Forces are brought in by local police departments to assist during the busy months. In addition, seasonal officers are routinely hired who may have limited training but can still make arrests. Even though the annual rise in arrests is mostly related to minor infractions, the lingering impact can be significant for the Jersey shore community.
What Are Common Jersey Shore Offenses in the Summer?
There are a wide range of criminal offenses that can occur at the New Jersey shore in the summer. Crimes ranging from pickpocketing to more serious offenses like assault can all happen in the summer or anytime. Regardless of the particular offense, anyone arrested for a crime should retain a trusted Jersey Shore lawyer to ensure that proper legal procedures are followed.
Some criminal offenses that can occur at the Jersey shore include:
- Disorderly conduct
- Public intoxication
- Underage drinking
- Driving under the influence
- Drug charges
- Theft
- Simple assault
- Aggravated assault
- Weapons charges
- Sexual assault
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Homicide
What Areas of the New Jersey Shore See the Most Crime?
Criminal activity can occur in any town or city in New Jersey and throughout the United States. However, some areas along the New Jersey shore consistently have a higher crime rate than others. Criminal activity and crime rates are typically correlated to a town’s population, location, major highways, and socio-economic status. When it comes to the New Jersey shore, crime rates peak in the middle of the summer season when the area is packed with people of all ages.
The following is some helpful information about crime in the New Jersey shore area:
- Asbury Park: Asbury Park has been cited as the most dangerous shore town in New Jersey. The city was ranked as having the third most crimes per person, the third most property crimes, and the second most violent crimes in the entire state.
- Long Branch: The total crime rate in Long Branch is lower than the national average but higher than the state average in New Jersey. Overall violent and property crime rates in Long Branch are higher than other cities its size. Criminal activity in Long Branch varies from neighborhood to neighborhood.
- Monmouth Beach: The total crime rate in Monmouth Beach is lower than both the national and state averages. As with other shore towns, crime rates can vary in Monmouth Beach depending on the particular area or neighborhood.
What Should I Do if I am Charged With a Crime This Summer?
It is critical to consult with a reputable Jersey Shore lawyer as soon as possible after being arrested for any alleged criminal conduct. Our team of skilled criminal defense attorneys have the specific experience and knowledge required to effectively handle your case.
If you have been accused of committing a crime, it is essential to ensure your rights and best interests are protected. In addition to substantial financial penalties, individuals charged with crimes in New Jersey can face consequences that can affect their future and the futures of their loved ones.
Life-changing consequences that alleged criminal offenders may face include:
- Loss of employment opportunities.
- Difficulty maintaining or finding housing.
- Fractured relationships with family.
- Permanent criminal record.
- Damaged reputation in the community.
- Loss of driver’s license.
- Loss of professional licenses.
- Supervised probation.
- Incarceration.
- Megan’s Law registration.
Jersey Shore Lawyers at Lyons & Associates, P.C. Help Clients Accused of Crimes in the New Jersey Shore Area
Our Jersey Shore lawyers at Lyons & Associates, P.C. have dedicated their practice to defending clients facing criminal charges at the New Jersey shore and throughout the state. Clients who seek our legal services can trust that we will fight to protect their rights and ensure the best possible outcome for their case. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, call us at 908-575-9777 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Freehold, Morristown, and Somerville, New Jersey, we serve clients in Somerset, Woodbridge, Morristown, Parsippany, Rockaway, Short Hills, Chatham, Randolph, Madison, Morris Plains, and Monmouth County.