Though many Chinese residents see an increased risk of theft year round, crime rates often spike during the Lunar New Year, when elders traditionally give cash gifts to younger relatives.
NYTimes New Year's Eve http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/20/nyregion/at-lunar-new-year-a-big-red-target-for-pickpockets.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss