It turns out that we’re both stupid. At least where I live, all crimes people casually refer to as “vandalism” are in fact legally handled under the charge of “mischief”. But also included are things like blocking someone’s driveway, interfering with computer data, preventing lawful use of property, and tampering with infrastructure. Which of course can be much more serious crimes than keying someone’s car and can come with significant jail time, for mischief.
Speak for yourself. There’s multiple degrees of criminal mischief, and those that have $0 in damages (putting foil in an air valve) are of the lowest level. My penalty was 25 hours of community service and a $0 fine.
I know it sounds silly or archaic but “mischief” is a very serious charge with significant penalties. You’d rather get vandalism.
It’s not. I was arrested and charged with it a while ago. It’s a low level misdemeanor.
It turns out that we’re both stupid. At least where I live, all crimes people casually refer to as “vandalism” are in fact legally handled under the charge of “mischief”. But also included are things like blocking someone’s driveway, interfering with computer data, preventing lawful use of property, and tampering with infrastructure. Which of course can be much more serious crimes than keying someone’s car and can come with significant jail time, for mischief.
Speak for yourself. There’s multiple degrees of criminal mischief, and those that have $0 in damages (putting foil in an air valve) are of the lowest level. My penalty was 25 hours of community service and a $0 fine.