Alcohol-Related Crime Statistics

Statistics Show that Alcohol is a Factor in Numerous Crimes

According to studies across the globe, alcohol is a contributing factor in numerous crimes from drunk driving to homicide.  Alcohol has a direct correlation with an increase in the propensity towards violence and aggressive behavior.  Consuming heavy amounts of alcohol can do irreparable harm to yourself and others.  Some of the most common crimes committed while under the influence of alcohol include:

  • Driving under the influence (DUI)
  • Domestic Violence
  • Battery
  • Assault
  • Child Endangerment
  • Homicide
  • Sexual Assault
  • Child Abuse

It is imperative that a person suffering from a substance use disorder with alcohol or another drug, seek help immediately.  There are treatment options. 

According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), on average each year  37% of rapes and sexual assaults involve alcohol consumption by the perpetrator.  Additionally, alcohol is involved in 15% of robberies and 27% of aggravated assaults.  Most violent crimes are more likely to be committed by a person under the influence of alcohol in lieu of drugs with the exception of robbery.  Of convicted offenders over 1/3 of them admitted to drinking at the time they committed the crime. 

Alcohol is known to not only increase the risk of aggressive behavior and violence, but also lead to impaired judgement and a lowering of inhibitions.  The combination turns deadly when someone gets behind the wheel of a car, goes swimming or gets into a heated argument.  Alcohol plays a role in too many violent crimes.  People who would not otherwise make the poor choices that lead to injury or death, may be more likely to do so when under the influence of alcohol.