From early September through late November is the time when Idaho Falls and any other city will see a lot of vandalism — mostly because it’s the season that hosts Halloween.



During this time of year, kids resort to smashing pumpkins. Does this somewhat harmless form of entertainment have a consequence?



In Idaho Falls, it does. Smashing pumpkins, toilet papering and other Halloween pranks fall under the category of malicious damage to property.



“(Smashing pumpkins) is the same as if you damaged property, like punching a hole in a wall,” Sgt. Bill Squires of the Idaho Falls Police said.



If caught, according to Sgt. Squires, perpetrators could face a $1,000 fine or up to one year in jail.



“My advice is don’t destroy someone else’s property,” Sgt. Squires said. “You could pay a stiff penalty.”