Ding dong ditching—ringing a doorbell and running away—is not explicitly named as illegal in New Mexico statutes but can qualify as criminal trespass under state law.
Entering or remaining on private property without permission, even briefly to prank, violates N.M. Stat. § 30-14-1, a misdemeanor offense. Consequences escalate with repeats or additional factors like property damage.
Legal Definition and Basis
New Mexico Code § 30-14-1 defines criminal trespass as willfully entering or remaining on another’s property (not a dwelling) without authorization.
Ringing the bell and fleeing fits this, as doorsteps count as private premises. First offenses often yield warnings, but second catches trigger misdemeanor charges: up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine, and probation.
No “prank exception” exists; intent doesn’t excuse unauthorized entry. If inside a fenced yard or gated area, penalties rise.
When It Escalates to Serious Charges
Adding vandalism (e.g., egging houses) invokes § 30-15-1 (petty misdemeanor or felony). Nighttime acts or repeated targeting may lead to harassment (§ 30-3A-3) or disorderly conduct (§ 30-20-1). Homeowners defending property could claim self-defense if they pursue, though deadly force is rare and limited.
Juveniles face juvenile court, parental liability, or community service over jail.
Local Variations
Albuquerque and Santa Fe municipal codes mirror state trespass rules, with fines starting at $100-$500 for infractions. Rural areas enforce less but prosecute chronic offenders. No statewide “ding dong ditch” ban, but HOAs add covenants.
Penalties Breakdown
- Trespass (first): Warning or petty misdemeanor ($100-$500 fine).
- Repeat: Misdemeanor Class 1 (364 days jail max, $1,000 fine).
- With damage: Vandalism charges (up to $2,500 restitution, felony if over $1,000).
- Civil suits possible for distress or cleanup costs.
Enforcement depends on homeowner complaints to police.
Exceptions and Defenses
Invited guests or public sidewalks are fine, but crossing into yards triggers issues. Claiming “no intent to trespass” rarely works without permission. Video evidence from Ring cameras strengthens prosecutions.
Best Practices to Avoid Trouble
Stick to public pranks; respect “No Trespassing” signs. Parents: supervise kids to prevent escalation. If caught, apologize promptly—many drop charges. Consult a local attorney if charged; dismissals occur for minor first offenses.
New Mexico views ding dong ditching as more than harmless fun—prioritize respect to stay legal.
- https://www.pumphreylawfirm.com/blog/is-ding-dong-ditching-as-harmless-as-pranksters-think/
- https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/is-it-allowed-to-ding-dong-ditch–5329846.html
