The Relationship Between Alcohol and Criminal Acts
Research shows that a large percentage of people incarcerated were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time they committed a crime. Alcohol can impair your ability to think clearly, slow your reaction time, and may make you more aggressive.
Common alcohol-related crimes:
- Driving under the influence. Driving under the influence or while impaired by alcohol is one of the most common alcohol-related crimes. Each year over 10,000 people are killed in drunk driving accidents.
- Public Intoxication. Under California Penal Code Section 647 (f), it is unlawful for any person to be found in a public place under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a controlled substance if they are “unable to exercise care for their own safety or the safety of others” or obstructs a sidewalk, street, or another area.
- Assault. A large number of people convicted of assault admit to being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the offense. Alcohol can increase a person’s aggression and irritability, making it more likely that they will commit a violent crime.
- Domestic Violence. Along with assault, many people accused of domestic violence say that they were drinking at the time the crime was committed.
- Sexual Assault. Alcohol is involved in a number of rapes and sexual assaults, whether they occur on college campuses, at home, or in group settings.
If you have a reliance or dependence on alcohol, you need to seek treatment. Alcohol treatment can help you overcome addiction and prevent alcohol-related crimes.
