Halloween Pranks Cause Damage, Danger, Can Cost Taxpayers Thousands

Edmonson Voice Staff
Many of us have participated in the classic Halloween pranks, whether it be a toilet paper roll here and there or possibly even an egg tossed about. Some would say these types of pranks are harmless, while others certainly frown upon them, but most all can agree that there are many Halloween pranks that not only aren't funny, but are also dangerous and can cause property damage or injury.

Smoldering remains of a recliner set on fire in the middle of HWY 259 on Halloween night. (photo Edmonson Voice)

Edmonson County Sheriff vehicles out on Halloween night. (photo Edmonson Voice)

Local police said light rain showers helped keep things pretty quiet around the county last night, but extra patrols were busy and fire departments stayed up late in case of emergencies. Police reported a couple of tire fires in the road that were easily put out, but emergency personnel was still called out and they used taxpayer dollars or budget-strapped volunteer departments to take care of the incidents.

One local fire department responded to what was left of a recliner that was set on fire in the middle of 259. Why someone thinks this was funny, entertaining, or normal, doesn't make much sense, but according to the sheriff's office, one police officer who happened to be driving at that location was forced to slam on the brakes to keep from running his cruiser through the burning pile. That could have easily been a serious traffic accident.

"Although kids may think that burning large objects in the road is funny or some kind of prank, in reality it becomes a huge burden on the people of the county," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "The wasted taxpayer-funded police officers, the firefighters' volunteer time and equipment, and the damage to the roads are always a huge problem."

Some argue that pranks are simply are part of Halloween, but Doyle says to use common sense when participating in festivities. "We don't want to take away the fun of the holiday, but whatever you do, make sure it doesn't put you or others in danger, it won't damage personal or public property of any kind, and your fun doesn't take away someone else's."

Doyle also encouraged parents and guardians to know the whereabouts of their children during these situations. "Even good kids make bad choices, but when parents are more involved in their kids' activities, the results are usually better."

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