Is It Illegal to Ding Dong Ditch in Colorado? Here’s What the Law Says

Ding dong ditching, the act of ringing someone’s doorbell and running away, may seem like a harmless prank, but it can have serious legal consequences in Colorado. While there is no specific law against ding dong ditching, the act can fall under several criminal offenses, potentially resulting in fines, probation, or even jail time.

Trespassing

In Colorado, ding dong ditching can be considered criminal trespass. The state recognizes three degrees of trespassing:

1. First-degree trespass: Entering or remaining in a dwelling
2. Second-degree trespass: Entering or remaining in enclosed premises
3. Third-degree trespass: Entering or remaining on any premises

Ding dong ditching typically falls under third-degree trespass, which is usually a petty offense. Penalties can include:

• Up to 10 days in jail
• A fine of up to $300

However, if the prank involves entering a dwelling, it could be charged as first-degree trespass, which is a more serious offense:

• Class 1 misdemeanor: Up to 364 days in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines
• Class 6 felony (if the dwelling is inhabited or occupied): 1-18 months in prison and/or $1,000-$100,000 in fines

Harassment

Ding dong ditching can also be considered harassment under Colorado law. Repeatedly ringing someone’s doorbell with the intent to annoy or alarm them could lead to harassment charges.

Disorderly Conduct

In some cases, ding dong ditching might be charged as disorderly conduct, especially if it disturbs the peace or causes public inconvenience1.

Potential Defenses

If charged with an offense related to ding dong ditching, possible defenses include:

1. Lack of intent to commit a crime
2. Unawareness of entering private property
3. Property owner’s consent (though unlikely in most cases)

Risks Beyond Legal Consequences

While the legal ramifications of ding dong ditching are concerning, there are other potential risks to consider:

1. Property owner retaliation: Some homeowners may react aggressively to perceived threats, potentially leading to dangerous confrontations.
2. Escalation of charges: What starts as a simple prank can quickly escalate if property damage occurs or if the pranksters enter a dwelling.
3. Civil liability: Victims of ding dong ditching may pursue civil lawsuits for damages or emotional distress.

Advice for Parents and Teens

Given the potential legal and safety risks, it’s crucial for parents to educate their children about the consequences of ding dong ditching. Law enforcement officials recommend:

1. Explaining the legal implications of the prank
2. Discussing potential safety risks
3. Encouraging respectful behavior towards neighbors and their property

For homeowners experiencing repeated ding dong ditching, it’s advisable to:

1. Install security cameras to deter pranksters and gather evidence
2. Report persistent issues to local law enforcement
3. Avoid confronting pranksters directly, as this could lead to dangerous situations

While ding dong ditching might seem like a harmless childhood game, it can have serious legal consequences in Colorado. The act can be classified as trespassing, harassment, or disorderly conduct, potentially resulting in fines, probation, or even jail time. Given these risks, it’s best to discourage this behavior and find safer, legal ways for young people to have fun.

Sources:

• [1] https://www.pumphreylawfirm.com/blog/is-ding-dong-ditching-as-harmless-as-pranksters-think/
• [2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4ksT6lvfGc
• [3] https://www.shouselaw.com/co/defense/laws/trespassing/
• [4] https://www.facebook.com/LafayetteColoradoPolice/posts/hands-on-the-wheel-not-your-phone-effective-jan-1-it-is-illegal-in-colorado-to-u/1032661398902814/