What Is The Punishment For Vandalism?

Vandalism is a crime.

·         Definitions vary within the 50 States. In most counties and communities it is described as malicious or willful destruction of private or public property without the consent of the property’s owner.

·         Vandalism is seen by some as merely a prank. It is a crime and costs taxpayers millions of dollars to counteract.

Penalties for vandalizing property range in severity according to the damage and reasons for the damage.

·         Criminals may be ordered to pay fines up to $250,000.

·         Mandatory community service may be ordered.

·         Incarceration upwards of a year is a common sentencing.

·         Misdemeanor or Felony may be found and is punishable according to the vandalism done. If it is found that the vandalism was done because of a person’s race, religion, sexual preference, color, ancestry, disability or national origin will likely result in a Felony charge.

·         Specified restitution may be ordered. This could include replacement of property and the labor to re-install it.