Halloween is supposed to be fun. Every year, though, some families end the night with a phone call from a police station. Most of those cases start with something that looked harmless at the time. Here is what tends to go wrong, and how to keep it from happening in your family.
Pranks that damage property
Egging a car, smashing a pumpkin display or breaking a decoration can be charged as malicious destruction of property in Michigan. How serious the charge is depends largely on the dollar value of the damage, and paint damage to a car adds up fast. Doorbell cameras mean there is often video.
Going where you are not invited
Cutting through yards, entering a vacant building for a scare, or staying on property after being told to leave can lead to a trespassing charge. Vacant buildings are also dangerous. Talk to teenagers about where they are going before they leave.
Costume props that look like weapons
A realistic toy gun can bring a serious police response, and waving any fake weapon at people can lead to charges. Leave realistic props at home, and never carry one into a store, a school event or a bar.
Drinking and driving
Halloween parties mean more impaired drivers on the road. In Michigan a driver can be charged at a blood alcohol level of 0.08, penalties are heavier at 0.17 and above, and drivers under 21 can be charged with any measurable amount. Plan the ride home before the first drink.
Parties with minors
Adults who provide alcohol to minors, or knowingly let them drink at their home, can face charges of their own. If you are hosting, know who is in your house and what they are drinking.
If someone is arrested
- Stay calm and find out where the person is being held.
- Do not talk about what happened on a jail phone. Those calls are recorded.
- Call a defense attorney before anyone gives a statement.
- Save what you can right away: texts, photos, video and the names of people who were there. Our evidence preservation checklist explains what to secure first.
- Read our guide to the first 48 hours after an arrest.
A short safety list for families
- Add something reflective to costumes and carry a flashlight.
- Send younger children out with an adult, and older ones in a group with a set route and a time to be home.
- Check treats before anyone eats them.
- Drive slowly through neighborhoods from late afternoon on.
If someone you care about is facing a charge, the defense attorney can bring in an investigator early. Phillips Private Investigations & Consulting Firm works with defense teams in every Michigan county. Call 734-941-5200 or send us a message. The consultation is free and strictly confidential.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Talk to a licensed attorney about your situation.
