Ding dong ditch—ringing someone’s doorbell and running away—is not specifically named as a crime in New Hampshire law, but it can be illegal depending on the circumstances.
How New Hampshire Law Applies
- Disorderly Conduct: New Hampshire’s disorderly conduct laws cover a wide range of disruptive behaviors, including making unreasonable noise, disturbing the peace, or causing annoyance in public or private spaces. If ding dong ditching is done repeatedly, late at night, or in a way that disturbs residents, it could be charged as disorderly conduct.
- Trespassing: Entering someone’s property without permission for the purpose of ding dong ditching can be considered trespassing, especially if you go beyond the immediate doorstep or ignore “No Trespassing” signs.
- Penalties: A disorderly conduct charge in New Hampshire can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail if charged as a misdemeanor. If you continue after being asked to stop, the offense can be elevated from a violation to a misdemeanor.
Real-World Outcomes
- First Offense: Law enforcement may issue a warning, especially for minors or first-time offenders, but repeated incidents or escalation can lead to formal charges.
- Annoyance and Disturbance: Even if not charged criminally, the prank can be considered a nuisance and may result in police involvement if residents are repeatedly disturbed.
Ding dong ditching in New Hampshire is not harmless—it can lead to legal trouble if it disturbs the peace or involves trespassing. While a single prank may result in just a warning, repeated or disruptive behavior can bring disorderly conduct or trespassing charges, with potentially serious penalties.
Sources:
- https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/is-it-allowed-to-ding-dong-ditch–5329846.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knock_down_ginger
- https://www.tennandtenn.com/new-hampshire-disorderly-conduct-lawyers/