Utah Halloween Pranks Got Out of Control

When I mention a night of Trick or Treat what comes to mind the trick or the treat? Yes, that is my answer as well, treats. Sure, we get the teenagers who pull off a few pumpkin smashings, but overall, it’s ruled by abiding little citizens in costume asking for treats from law-abiding adults in their decorated homes handing out treats.

This wasn’t always the case in Utah. There was a season when the treats were right out and the Halloween pranks were the way we celebrated the holiday. I don’t mean just little pranks—these were whoppers. Putting carriages on roofs, putting animals on porches, placing a mannequin on train tracks to scare witnesses—these were just the beginning of the pranks.

Read More: Outstanding, Mind-Blowing Costumes To Do In Utah This Year

It started to get out of control as buildings were burned down and train tracks were made slippery with the intent to derail the cars.

The treats weren’t a part of the holiday until after 1940, largely due to a sugar restriction during the world wars.

As things got out of control, Utah came down on the pranksters (who might be defined as villains at this point) and started to reign in the flagrant disregard for the laws. Thankfully they did, as it was actually becoming the most dangerous night of the year.

So, this year, as you celebrate Halloween by passing out or collecting candy, maybe be grateful that you don’t have to worry that someone might be burning down your house, all in the name of fun, of course.