Ding dong ditching, the prank of ringing a doorbell and fleeing, isn’t explicitly illegal by name in Arkansas. It can violate broader laws like disorderly conduct or trespassing, potentially leading to misdemeanor charges depending on circumstances.
Legal Framework
Arkansas lacks a specific “ding dong ditch” statute, but activities disturbing peace fall under disorderly conduct rules (Ark. Code § 5-71-207).
This Class C misdemeanor carries up to 30 days in jail and $500 fines if the act annoys residents, especially at night or repeatedly.
Trespassing applies if you enter private property without invitation (Ark. Code § 5-39-203). Porches count as curtilage; lingering or ignoring “no trespassing” signs escalates risks.
Related Offenses
Harassment charges arise from repeated targeting, alarming or annoying victims (Ark. Code § 5-71-209). Property damage, like breaking a doorbell, adds criminal mischief penalties.
| Offense | Statute | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Conduct | § 5-71-207 | Up to 30 days jail, $500 fine |
| Trespassing (2nd Degree) | § 5-39-203 | Up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine |
| Harassment | § 5-71-209 | Misdemeanor fines/jail |
Enforcement Practices
Police often issue warnings for first-time juvenile pranks without damage. Repeat offenses or homeowner complaints trigger citations; late-night acts heighten scrutiny. Vulnerable residents (elderly, alone) amplify responses due to fear factors.
No 2025-2026 updates specifically addressed this; general public order laws govern.
Risks and Advice
Homeowners may react defensively, risking confrontations. Juveniles face juvenile court, but records can impact futures. Avoid the prank: respect property to sidestep fines, arrests, or escalation. Check local ordinances in cities like Little Rock for stricter rules.
SOURCES:
- https://knowillegal.com/is-ding-dong-ditching-illegal/
- https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/is-it-allowed-to-ding-dong-ditch–5329846.html
