Fireworks and Fist Fights: An Ecological Analysis of Holidays and Crime

• In Event: Macro level Influences and Crime Patterns

Abstract

Drawing on routine activities theory (RAT) and previous research involving alcohol consumption, this study examines the temporal and geospatial distribution of crime in a major southeastern city. More specifically, using police calls for service from 2009 through 2013, this research explores the impact of different kinds of holidays (e.g., holidays traditionally celebrated at home vs. in public) on the concentration and type of crime (i.e., violent vs. property, predatory vs. expressive).The implications for police practices and policies are discussed.

Authors

• Jennifer Leili, University of South Florida

• Ráchael A. Powers, University of South Florida