A Minnesota man has been charged after allegedly installing a homemade spike strip along a bike path in an attempt to deter children from using his yard as a shortcut. Kyle James Steffen, 39, faces one count of setting a spring gun, pitfall, deadfall, or snare, a gross misdemeanor.
Police were called to Steffen's home in Wyoming, Minnesota, on April 28 after a neighbor reported him yelling at children. Officers observed a three-foot-long plastic strip anchored in the grass near his property, studded with approximately 40 three-inch screws protruding upwards. Evidence of bicycle tracks under and around the device indicated its use by children accessing Goodview Park.
According to the criminal complaint, Steffen admitted to placing the device to "keep kids off of his lawn." He told police he had repeatedly warned children away from his property, stating they continued to ride through his yard out of spite. Officers noted Steffen appeared frustrated that the device had not been successful in deterring the children.
Steffen stated his intention was to "scare them away" and not to cause injury. The complaint does not specify if any individuals were harmed by the device.
Steffen, a lifelong Minnesota resident, has an apparent interest in motorsports and has been involved in professional racing. His attorney declined to comment on the case. Steffen is scheduled for his first court appearance on August 25. If convicted, he could face up to 180 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.