Gathering evidence is a critical step in building a strong defense against charges of malicious destruction of property. This can include surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, or any other form of proof that may help to either disprove the allegations or shed light on mitigating circumstances.
If the damage is $1,000 or greater, or if there is interruption or impairment of a business operation or public communication, transportation, supply of water, gas or power, or other public service which costs $1,000 or more in labor and supplies to restore, it is a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in ...
If the damage is less than $200, the criminal mischief is classified as a misdemeanor; If the damage is between $200 and $1,000, it's a misdemeanor of the first degree; If the damage is more than $1,000, it's a felony of the third degree.
Elements of a Criminal Mischief Charge Intent: The prosecution must demonstrate that the defendant intentionally committed the act, knowing that it would result in damage to someone else's property. Property Damage: There must be evidence of actual damage or destruction to the property in question.
Any time a person damages someone else's property without the owner's permission, that's criminal mischief. Criminal mischief is also known as malicious mischief, vandalism, damage to property, or by other names depending on the state.
Summary – maximum sentence of 90 days in jail and a $300.00 fine – covers all criminal mischief charges not included above.
Gathering evidence is a critical step in building a strong defense against charges of malicious destruction of property. This can include surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, or any other form of proof that may help to either disprove the allegations or shed light on mitigating circumstances.
PENALTIES FOR CRIMINAL MISCHIEF CONVICTION – SUMMARY OFFENSE If you are found guilty of a criminal mischief as a summary offense in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, you can be sentenced to up to 90 days in jail and up to $300 in fines.