The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Minnesota man is facing a gross misdemeanor charge after authorities alleged he placed a homemade spike device in his front yard to stop children from riding bicycles across his property on the way to a nearby park.
According to investigators, officers responded after a woman reported that a homeowner had been yelling at her children to stay off his lawn. She also told police she had discovered what appeared to be spikes hidden in the grass.
When authorities inspected the property, they reportedly found a homemade device consisting of a clear plastic strip fitted with dozens of three-inch screws pointing upward. Investigators alleged the object had been placed in the yard as a trap intended to discourage children from cutting across the property while riding their bikes.
Police also reported seeing bicycle tire tracks passing beneath and around the device, suggesting riders had continued using the shortcut despite its placement.
During an interview with officers, the homeowner allegedly admitted he had intentionally placed the spike strip in the yard. According to the criminal complaint, he said he had repeatedly yelled at children to stay off his lawn, claiming they continued riding through the property despite his warnings. Investigators also noted that he appeared frustrated because the device had not stopped the behavior.
The man was later charged with setting a spring gun, pitfall, deadfall, or snare, a gross misdemeanor under Minnesota law. Court records show he was not booked into jail following the investigation but is scheduled to make his first court appearance near the end of August.
If convicted, he could spend up to 180 days in prison, be ordered to pay a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.