Texas Crime Rates Vary on Availability of Alcohol

Wet counties actually have lower numbers of Texas DWI arrests.

A review of crime and traffic data shows that counties that sell alcohol have distinct differences in crime rates and alcohol related accidents from those that don’t. Though not in the way that opponents of alcohol sales and distribution might think.

The fear that alcohol sales lead to additional crime, especially drunk driving in Texas, is basically unfounded. Based on 2007 data from the Texas Department of Public Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of arrests for driving while intoxicated in Texas was 502 per 100,000 residents in dry counties versus 445 in wet. The number of traffic fatalities involving alcohol in dry counties was 5.7 per 100,000 residents in dry counties; more than twice the 2.7 rate in wet areas.

Wet counties, however, showed a dramatic difference in domestic violence. There were 849 reports of domestic violence per 100,000 residents in wet areas compared to 482 in dry counties. Reports of increased aggravated assault were inconclusive, leading some to feel that the size of the city was more influential than the availability of alcohol.

The density of alcohol outlets was not shown to be directly associated with an increase in crime, though influential. Places permitting on-premise consumption of alcohol, like bars and restaurants, generally lead to an increase in the number of domestic abuse and aggravated assault, while off-premise establishments, like liquor stores, grocery stores and convenience stores, do not.

The mix statistics has lead law enforcement groups to promise aggressive enforcement in counties that decide to permit alcohol sales. That includes increased patrols for Texas DWI, undercover stings in establishments and coordination with the TABC in shutting down problems stores.

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