Common Crimes That Spike on Valentine's Day and How to Stay Safe
- rachel4225
- Feb 13
- 4 min read
Valentine’s Day is a time for love and celebration, but it also brings an increase in certain crimes. As people focus on romance, criminals often take advantage of the distractions and crowded places. Knowing which crimes tend to rise around this holiday can help you stay alert and protect yourself. I’ll walk you through the most common offenses linked to Valentine’s Day and share practical tips to keep safe while enjoying the festivities.
Stalking and Harassment
Valentine's Day can trigger stalking behaviors, particularly in cases of unreciprocated romantic advances or past relationships.
Common stalking behaviors include:
Repeated unwanted contact: Calls, texts, emails, or messages on social media that continue after you have asked the person to stop.
Following or showing up unexpectedly: The person may appear at places you frequent, such as work, home, or social spots.
Monitoring your activities: This can include tracking your location, watching your home, or asking others about your whereabouts.
Sending unwanted gifts or letters: These may seem harmless but can be a way to maintain control or intimidate.
Threatening behavior: Direct or indirect threats to your safety or that of your loved ones.
How to Assess Stalking Threats:
Trust your instincts: If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Your intuition is a valuable early warning system.
Document everything: Keep a detailed record of all stalking incidents, including dates, times, locations, and descriptions of the behavior. Save messages, voicemails, and any evidence.
Inform trusted people: Let friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors know about the situation. They can help watch out for your safety and provide support.
Change routines: Vary your daily routes, times, and habits to make it harder for a stalker to predict your movements.
Secure your home and devices: Use locks, security cameras, and privacy settings on social media. Avoid sharing your location publicly or posting live on social media.
Contact authorities: If you feel threatened or the stalking escalates, report it to the police. Many jurisdictions have laws specifically addressing stalking.
Create a safety Plan: Have an exit plan in case you need to move quickly and a go-bag ready with your personal essentials.
Online Romance Scams
Romance scams spike around Valentine’s Day as scammers exploit people’s desire for connection. They create fake profiles on dating sites or social media to build trust and then ask for money or personal information.
Typical tactics: Scammers may claim emergencies, ask for gifts, or request financial help.
Warning signs: Be skeptical of anyone who quickly professes love or asks for money. Avoid sharing sensitive information.
Stay safe: Use reputable dating platforms, verify profiles, and never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
Fraudulent Gift Sales
The demand for flowers, chocolates, and gifts surges, leading to an increase in fraudulent sales. Fake websites or sellers may offer deals that seem too good to be true, only to deliver poor-quality or no products at all.
Common frauds: Fake flower delivery services, counterfeit chocolates, or overpriced items.
How to avoid: Purchase from trusted retailers or well-known brands. Check reviews and payment security before buying online.
Tip: Use credit cards for online purchases to have better fraud protection.
Domestic Violence and Abuse
Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, Valentine’s Day can also see a rise in domestic violence cases. Valentine's Day can heighten emotions, leading to conflicts in relationships. Arguments about relationships, infidelity, or unmet expectations sometimes escalate into domestic disputes. The pressure of the holiday, combined with alcohol consumption and relationship stress, can trigger conflicts.
Signs to watch for: Increased arguments, controlling behavior, or physical harm.
Resources: If you or someone you know is in danger, contact local support services or hotlines immediately.
Prevention: Plan safe celebrations and avoid excessive alcohol. Communicate openly and seek help if tensions rise.
Public Intoxication, DUI's and Disorderly Conduct
Many couples and singles celebrate Valentine's Day with dinner and drinks, leading to an increase in DUI-related arrests. Bars and clubs tend to be busier on Valentine’s Day, leading to more incidents related to alcohol. Public disturbances, fights, and vandalism often increase during this time. Law enforcement often increases patrols and DUI checkpoints on and around the holiday.
Common issues: Overconsumption of alcohol, aggressive behavior, and property damage.
Safety tips: Drink responsibly, stay with trusted friends, and avoid confrontations.
If you witness trouble: Alert security or law enforcement rather than intervening directly.
Theft and Pickpocketing
Valentine’s Day often means crowded restaurants, shopping centers, and public events. These busy places create perfect opportunities for pickpockets and thieves. People carrying gifts, cash, or credit cards can become easy targets.
Common scenarios: Pickpockets operate in crowded areas like malls, movie theaters, and public transport.
How to protect yourself: Keep your valuables in front pockets or inside zipped bags. Avoid flashing expensive items such as jewelry or phones.
Be cautious: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when distracted by your phone or conversations.
How to Enjoy Valentine’s Day Safely
Knowing the risks is the first step to staying safe. Here are some practical ways to protect yourself and your loved ones:
Plan your outings in well-lit, populated areas.
Follow the buddy system, and don't leave friends behind.
Use rideshare services or designated drivers if you plan to drink.
Don't get into a ride share alone while intoxicated.
Keep your phone charged and share your location with a trusted person.
Trust your instincts—if something feels off, leave the situation.
Report suspicious activity to authorities promptly.
Valentine’s Day should be about connection and joy, not fear. By staying aware of common crimes and taking simple precautions, you can enjoy the day with peace of mind.
Remember, safety is part of self-care. Celebrate love wisely and protect yourself from those who might try to take advantage of the holiday spirit. Stay alert, stay safe, and make this Valentine’s Day a positive memory.
If you want to learn how to develop better awareness habits, develop a safety plan, process existing trauma, or learn defense strategies, schedule a private session!
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