What kind of crime is graffiti

Vandalism is the willful destruction or damaging of property in a manner that defaces, mars, or otherwise adds a physical blemish that diminishes the property's value. For example, if you put bumper stickers on a person's car or spray-paint your name on someone's fence, this is vandalism. Vandalism can also cover such offenses as:. While vandalism involves damaging property, it is not always the same as the crime of "destruction of property" or "damage to property.

In other words, what is vandalism in one state may be destruction of property in another. Vandalism, like every crime, is made up of different parts, known as elements. To be convicted of vandalism, the prosecutor must prove that you have committed each of these elements. Let's look at the different elements of vandalism. In general, vandalism is not a serious crime unless the property destroyed is worth a lot of money.

Many acts of vandalism are misdemeanors , meaning the maximum penalties include fines and up to a year in the local jail. However, vandalism that results in serious damage to valuable property is a felony. Defendants charged with a felony can face more than a year in state prison and significant fines. This amount can differ among states or depending on the type of property. Each state has its own set of penalties that cover vandalism.

Here are the most commonly encountered punishments. If you've been charged with the crime of vandalism, consider consulting with a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in your area. An experienced lawyer will be able to evaluate the strength of the prosecution's evidence against you, explain your options and the likely consequences for each, and protect your rights. Only a local lawyer who knows how cases like yours are normally handled by the prosecutors and judges in your courthouse will be able to give you practical and realistic advice.

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Please enter a valid zip code or city. Please select a city from the list. Connecting …. Are You a Lawyer? Grow Your Practice. Jose Rivera Managing Editor Editor. Last Updated: May 22, Choose Your Legal Category: Family. They were committing crimes against private property themselves and were encouraging illegal occupation and use of property.

Indeed, abolition of all private property was the avowed aim of the 20th century Socialists. Politicians themselves had no respect for property and they promoted disrespect for property among the Public.

And in that way they were failing in the basic duty of government to protect private and public property and to instill respect for property, both public and private, among the people. But stances are not enough.