Vorarlberg police warn Halloween pranks can lead to charges

Halloween pranks that damage property or threaten people can lead to criminal charges, while even minor mischief may bring civil costs, ORF reports, citing the Vorarlberg State Police Directorate.

Defacing houses or vehicles, damaging mailboxes or rubbish bins, stealing and threatening people are serious offences, the police directorate said. Those responsible may also have to pay for the removal of graffiti or other damage if property owners pursue civil claims.

Police will pay particular attention to public-order disturbances and compliance with fireworks laws. Setting off pyrotechnic items in built-up areas is generally prohibited throughout the year, though individual exemptions may be granted by municipalities.

The directorate said Halloween in Vorarlberg had generally been quiet in recent years, with no increase in offences. There have been occasional cases of property damage and fireworks-related callouts, while assaults have been rare.

Halloween costumes and masks are permitted as part of the tradition, the police said. Curfew rules still apply: children under 14 may not be in public without adult supervision after 11 p.m., and 14- and 15-year-olds may not do so after 1 a.m. There is no legal curfew for those aged 16 and over. Younger people may stay out later with an adult supervisor.