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Criminal charges

criminal mischief

Criminal mischief is generally the damage, destruction, defacing, or alteration of tangible property (vandalism), done with criminal intent (intentionally or knowingly). Criminal mischief charges often arise from (1) damage to a home or dwelling; (2) damage to a place of business; (3) damage to a motor vehicle; (4) damage to a school; (5) defacement or destruction of public or private property (graffiti, etc.); or (6) tampering with public water, gas, power, or communications.

Criminal mischief laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—usually in the penal or criminal code.

In Utah, criminal mischief is addressed under Utah Code § 76-6-106. The law defines criminal mischief as intentionally damaging, defacing, or destroying the property of another, and it can also include actions that endanger human life. The severity of the charges can range from a class B misdemeanor for causing damage of less than $500, to a second-degree felony for causing or risking substantial interruption or impairment of any critical infrastructure. This includes, but is not limited to, damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, schools, and public or private property, as well as tampering with public utilities. The specific charge and potential penalties depend on the extent of the damage and whether the act created a substantial danger of bodily injury to other persons.

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Criminal charges

criminal mischief

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Utah State Code

Utah State Code

Criminal charges

criminal mischief

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