- shooting bullets at a street sign
- scratching words into a table
- removing an emblem off a vehicle
- slashing a tire
- ripping a bus seat
- breaking a window
- damaging a public bench
- toppling a tombstone
- etching a window
- putting graffiti (with spray paint or permanent marker) on a wall
Penalties for Vandalism
If the damage done by the vandalism amounts to less than $400 and there's no prior criminal record, the penalties for vandalism are a fine up to $1,000, up to one year in the county jail, or both.
If the individual has a prior conviction for vandalism or graffiti, the potential sentence is a fine up to $5,000 and a year in jail. If the damage is over $400, the vandalism can be charged as a felony, with:
- up to a year in county jail, or
- up to three years in a state prison, and
- a fine up to $10,000
If the vandalism damage is more than $10,000 worth, the potential fine rises to a maximum of $50,000.
Even the Parents May Have to Pay
Other potential penalties for vandalism include counseling, a court order to personally repair or clean up the damage done, or even a court order to keep the property free of graffiti for a period of time. A parent of a minor child who is charged with vandalism may also be ordered to do this.
For a skilled, aggressive defense to vandalism charges, contact a criminal lawyer at the San Diego Law Offices of Anna R. Yum.
