Vandalism is the destruction of public or private property without the property owner’s permission. Vandalism is a crime, and can lead to jail time or fines.

Types of Vandalism

1. Glass breakage: Breaking windows of a building or car without the owner’s permission is vandalism.

2. Graffiti: Graffiti is an act of vandalism which includes painting on buildings, walls, buses and trains.

3. Arson: Arson is a subset of vandalism. Vandalism is willingly destroying or defacing property, and arson falls within that definition.

4. Littering: Throwing and leaving trash on public grounds is vandalism.

5. Egging: Egging is usually done as a prank, but it is considered vandalism by law.

Penalties

Jail and Fines: A jail sentence or fine for vandalism depends on the seriousness of the damage.

Restitution: Restitution is money paid to the property owner for the damage.

Probation: Probation is often punishment for a first-time vandalism offender. Violation of probation may result in jail time.

Criminal Defense Attorney in New York

Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are charged with vandalism. If you are looking for a New York criminal defense attorney, then contact Paul D. Petrus Jr. at 212-564-2440.