Australians warned against illegal Halloween activity that could result in a $2,200 fine

Love it or hate it, Halloween season is here.

In just a few days, excited children will take to the streets in their spookiest costumes to claim a bucket full of treats and candy. Although the occasion is quintessentially American, it has been widely embraced in Australia for decades, despite protests from some.

As such, thousands from across the country are expected to be out and about in their spookiest outfits soon when the spooky celebration begins next Thursday, October 31st.

However, according to legal experts, there are actually a number of ways a costume could see an unsuspecting adult land in hot water, and with parties set to take place this weekend, Australians across the country have been warned about what not to do.

Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, Sydney lawyer Avinash Singh said revelers could face a hefty fine if caught wearing face coverings – including masks – behind the wheel.

Lawyer’s Warning Against Halloween Celebrations

He said particularly in NSW, wearing a mask or costume while driving could cost up to $2,200 if the covering impairs the driver’s visibility or ability to properly control a vehicle.

“If police see a person driving and believe the costume is interfering with their ability to properly exercise control of a vehicle or maintain good visibility while driving, then it is not uncommon for them to stop the driver and issue a fine “Singh told Yahoo.

“The community should be aware that police carry out certain operations on special occasions – such as Halloween – when they expect large numbers of people to be out and about, increasing the risk of a charge or fine. “

Somewhat surprisingly, Singh added that there has also been an increase in homes and vehicles damaged by eggs on Halloween in recent years.

“This is most common among teenagers who are unaware of the serious consequences of their actions,” he said. “Generally, the damage comes from harrowing, an American concept associated with trick-or-treating. This is actually a crime of criminal damage, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.”

Additionally, if police believe a person intends to commit a crime while wearing a costume that obscures their face, they face a massive maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

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