Ohio Law Enforcement Announces Crackdown on Pumpkin Theft with Prosecution Measures

MORELAND HILLS, Ohio (WJW) — As the Halloween season approaches, some pranks meant for amusement can become quite a nuisance.

Ohio resident Nancy Thomas is all too familiar with the aggravation that comes with an annual Halloween trick.

“Did I feel violated? Absolutely, at that moment I did. But I’ve realized it’s best not to display pumpkins until after the festivities,” she confessed.

Thomas has experienced the theft of pumpkins from her front porch before, leaving her uncertain about the appropriate response from law enforcement.

Police in Moreland Hills, Ohio, are now sending out a serious reminder pranks that damage or take someone else’s property aren’t just tricks, they’re crimes.

“A big problem is that properties are very large in this neighborhood and surrounding areas,” Police chief Todd Dietzel said. “Kids running in the dark with masks and hoodies, trespassing and that could be very alarming to somebody should see that.”

WJW photo

Police said two specific ordinances come into play: criminal trespassing and theft.

The pumpkin prank tradition began back in 1967 with a group of high school upperclassmen. Hundreds of pumpkins are brought to Grove Hill in nearby Chagrin Falls, where kids smash them, slide down the hill on sleds, creating a huge mess.

Anyone caught damaging decorations, taking items, or stepping onto private property without permission could be prosecuted.

From this Halloween season, Nancy Thomas is hoping her fake pumpkin decor will keep the pranksters away.

“Everyone’s going to have a different opinion about it. I can see how it’s a fun prank, but I can see how it’s stealing, too,” she said.

Police said they have been notified of one theft so far this year, but the homeowner did not want to file charges.

The exact date of the pumpkin roll is usually kept secret until the actual event sometime between now and Halloween.

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