Property Damage, Vandalism, And Other Spooky October Frights

empadmin Blog

As we approach the end of October, local law enforcement is on high alert. Teenagers and young adults who have phased out of trick-or-treating find other means to participate in Halloween…but their method of celebrating isn’t always legal.

From loud partying and property damage to trespassing and vandalism, individuals caught violating the law can receive legal citations, significant fines, or even jail time. If minors are caught participating in such crimes, their parents might also see legal consequences as well.

 

Common Legal Trouble

In the northeast section of America, there is a tradition on the night before Halloween called “Mischief Night.” Young adults gather to cause chaos across their town by toilet papering houses, spray painting public property, and throwing eggs at cars. While this “tradition” doesn’t exist in other parts of the country, it doesn’t mean that these acts of vandalism only happen within the northeast bubble.

Every citizen in the U.S. can be a victim of property damage (and especially so during the month of October). Here are some common legal troubles that can land anyone in hot water:

Partying

Once children transition from the trick-or-treating stage, Halloween parties are a popular way to celebrate the holiday while dressing up in costume. However, there are a lot of issues with parties that parents (and young adults) need to consider:

  • Will there be alcohol served?
  • How many guests are attending?
  • Can you trust the hosts?
  • Will guests have legal parking spaces?
  • What is the noise ordinance within the town/city/county?

If you're a parent of a teenager, it's important to talk to the hosts and confirm that your child will not have access to alcohol or other illegal substances.

 

 

Likewise, young adults throwing a party will be responsible for their party-goers. This means controlling the sound system, ensuring your guests can park legally, and only allowing people 21 or older to consume alcoholic beverages.

Parents and young adults can receive significant fines and other legal consequences if police officers arrive to shut down the party.

 

Property Damage

Around Halloween time, people may roam around town causing property damage to houses, cars, and other valuables. While throwing toilet paper over tree branches won’t cause significant damage, throwing glass, eggs, and other breakables certainly can.

Parked cars and homes can be common targets for seasonal shenanigans. But some take it a step further by throwing objects at moving cars. It is illegal to throw virtually any substance onto a highway that could harm humans, animals, or vehicles. This action can cause serious injury and death.

 

Trespassing

In search of spooky encounters, some people choose to trespass on private property. But this is illegal, and “acts performed in the spirit of Halloween” isn’t a valid defense in the court of law.

Parents, make sure to ask your children about their plans if they are headed out of the house for fall activities. People who are caught trespassing in Arkansas will be charged with “criminal trespass” and the legal consequences can vary.

 

 

Vandalism

In the court of law, an individual will be charged with “defacing or damaging a public building or an object of public respect” when they are found painting, scratching, or permanently distorting public property.

Luckily, the government has cracked down on spray paint sales. Customers must be 18 years old and are required to show their ID prior to purchase. This helps reduce graffiti (and deadly inhalant use).

 

Trouble Brewing? Schedule A Legal Consultation Today

If you’ve had the fright of your life this October and need an attorney, scheduling a legal consultation with Hickey & Hull is easy. Our live agent is available 24/7 to book your initial appointment. No tricks here — just a team of legal professionals who are dedicated to helping you put an end to this nightmare.