Thanksgiving: A Busy Time for Arizona Law Enforcement
Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, big meals, and celebrations. Unfortunately, it is also one of the busiest times of year for Arizona police. Every holiday season, law enforcement increases patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and domestic disturbance responses. This leads to a noticeable rise in arrests across Maricopa and Mohave Counties, especially in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Lake Havasu City.
If you or a loved one is arrested on Thanksgiving, it’s critical to understand the most common charges and how an experienced Arizona criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights.
DUI Arrests After Thanksgiving Dinner
One of the leading causes of Thanksgiving arrests in Arizona is driving under the influence (DUI). After family dinners and football games, many people get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.
Arizona enforces some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation. Even a first-time DUI can carry:
- Jail time
- Fines and fees
- License suspension
- Mandatory ignition interlock device
Police set up DUI checkpoints throughout Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Lake Havasu during the holiday weekend. Arrests for extreme DUI (BAC .15% or higher) and aggravated DUI (such as driving with a suspended license or with children in the car) are also more common during this time.
Domestic Violence and Family Disputes
Thanksgiving gatherings often bring families together, but tension, stress, and alcohol can lead to conflicts. Unfortunately, police are frequently called to homes for domestic violence allegations.
These cases may involve:
- Physical altercations between spouses or partners
- Heated disputes among relatives
- Allegations of harassment or threats
Even a minor argument can escalate into an arrest if law enforcement believes probable cause exists. Domestic violence charges in Arizona can result in protective orders, mandatory counseling, and criminal penalties that impact future employment and housing.
Shoplifting and Black Friday Arrests
Thanksgiving weekend also includes Black Friday shopping, when stores are crowded and retail theft cases spike. Police often make arrests for shoplifting, disorderly conduct, or fights in busy retail areas.
Even misdemeanor shoplifting charges can carry serious penalties in Arizona, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication
With large gatherings, crowded bars, and travel, another common charge is disorderly conduct. This may include:
- Public intoxication
- Fighting in public places
- Loud or disruptive behavior
- Refusing to follow police orders
These cases often arise around Scottsdale nightlife areas, Lake Havasu parties, and Phoenix events.
How Rideout Law Group Can Help After a Holiday Arrest
At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys understand the stress of facing charges during the holiday season. With offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City, we represent clients across Arizona in DUI, domestic violence, theft, and disorderly conduct cases.
We provide:
- Free consultations
- Aggressive courtroom representation
- Experience from former prosecutors
- Local knowledge of Arizona courts and judges
If you or a loved one is arrested on Thanksgiving, don’t wait—getting legal help immediately can make all the difference in your case.
Rideout Law Group is here to protect your rights and fight for your future.
📞 Call us today at (833) 854-8181 for a free consultation or contact us online. We’re ready to help you start the year on a better note.