Vandalism Defense Attorney in Phoenix
If you are apprehended for vandalism, the charges against you may be a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the specifics of your arrest. Dismissing vandalism crimes can have severe negative repercussions. Therefore, if you or anyone you know has been taken into custody, contacting an attorney from our practice is critical.
If you or a loved one is facing vandalism charges in Phoenix, it is crucial to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. When you hire Bala Legal Services, you will be represented by an attorney who will tenaciously advocate for you. Call and schedule a free consultation to help us better understand your legal needs.
Types of Vandalism in Arizona
The Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1602 outlines the state's laws on vandalism or criminal damage. This section of the penal code prohibits defacing or causing damage to someone else's property.
Engaging in the following behaviors can result in an arrest for vandalism:
Causing harm to the property by defacing or damaging it
Interfering with property to render it ineffective or devalued
Creating graffiti by drawing or writing slogans, symbols, or other markings on public or private structures.
Common Instances of Vandalism
Vandalism covers a broad spectrum of activities. Essentially, any action that harms someone else's property without consent can result in a vandalism charge.
Here are some typical examples of vandalism:
- Spray painting graffiti on a property
- Scratching someone's vehicle with a key
- Shattering windows
- Puncturing someone's tires
- Pelting someone's house or vehicle with eggs
- Dismantling street signs
- Tossing or kicking someone's belongings about
- Setting fire to a structure recklessly
- Committing an act of desecration against a grave or place of worship
Penalties for Vandalism in Arizona
The punishments for your vandalism charges will vary depending on the nature of your offense. Some typical penalties outlined in § 13-1602 of the Arizona Statutes are provided below:
- Class 4 felony: This can be imposed if a defendant diminishes property values by $10,000 or more or if they cause $5,000 or more in utility damage.
- Class 5 felony: This can be filed if a defendant causes property damage ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
- Class 6 felony: This may be brought against someone who causes property damage worth between $1,000 and $2,000.
- Class 1 misdemeanor: pertains to cases where property damage is assessed as more than $250 but less than $1,000. All other instances of criminal damage are prosecuted as class 2 misdemeanors.
