Vandalism is generally the damage, destruction, defacing, or alteration of tangible public or private property, done with criminal intent (intentionally or knowingly). Vandalism 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.
Vandalism is sometimes classified as criminal mischief or reckless damage or destruction of property under state laws. These laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—usually in the penal or criminal code.
In Ohio, vandalism is addressed under Ohio Revised Code Section 2909.05. The law defines vandalism as knowingly causing serious physical harm to an occupied structure or any of its contents. It also covers the act of knowingly causing physical harm to property that is owned or controlled by the government, a private entity, or any other person. This includes, but is not limited to, homes, places of business, motor vehicles, schools, and public utilities. Vandalism can also involve the defacement or destruction of property through means such as graffiti. The severity of the charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors such as the extent of the damage and the type of property affected. For example, vandalism that results in significant monetary loss or damage to utilities can lead to more serious charges. Ohio law also includes provisions for criminal mischief and reckless destruction of property, which may apply to less severe instances of property damage.
