The holiday season is supposed to be one of joy and giving. Unfortunately, over the years, Christmas time has become the opposite of this. Christmas has become an extremely capitalized holiday and seems to no longer be about surrounding yourself with family and love. It has become more about how much money someone can spend on gifts, and fighting someone else over the last toy on the shelf. This time of year has also left many tired of scrapping pennies together to make ends meet, and leading them to believe they have no other choice but to commit a crime in order to get some money.

It has becoming increasingly more common to see crime rates spike in some neighborhoods during the holiday season. You'll see more armed robberies and break-ins, more thefts and attacks. According to the Criminal Justice Degrees Guide, some of the most common crimes during the holiday season include identity theft, robbery, shop lifting, home burglary, and vehicle theft, among other crimes. In 2013, CNN conducted a report using statistics gathered by the FBI in 2011 on home burglary during the holiday season. In California alone, there was an 18% increase in burglaries, which was about 21,900. That is an alarming amount for just one month. In Philadelphia, they counted 194 residential burglaries the week of December 24th.

It is unfortunate that so many people get so desperate during this time of year, and as the holiday season becomes more and more capitalized, we will only see these statistics rise. It is important to remember the true meaning of the holidays, and to find ways to give back to the community and those in need. It does not always have to be dropping a few cents in a bucket for the Salvation Army; you can donate non-perishable, canned food items you haven't used to your local food pantry, or old clothes that are in good condition to Good Will. Not everyone is as fortunate as you might be, especially during the holidays. It is also not always about receiving gifts. Sometimes, it's just the thought that counts. Cherish the time you have with your family and friends, be thankful for what you have, and be safe. Please do not result to committing a crime and endangering other people in attempt to better your holidays. Crime is not the answer.

And please, everyone, stay safe! Do not leave valuable items unattended in your car, lock your doors, and be aware of your surroundings. Most importantly, I hope everyone has a happy and healthy holiday! Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year!