Criminal Defense and Criminal Mischief

by | Sep 27, 2016 | Criminal Defense

In Pennsylvania concerning Criminal Defense, criminal mischief charges are among some of the most common charges that people face. Criminal mischief charges could arise from situations such as spray painting someone’s house or throwing a rock through someone’s car window. In such cases, an accused should hire a Criminal Defense Attorney.  There are several different acts that are covered in the PA Crimes Code under the statute criminal mischief. A person is guilty of criminal mischief if he damages tangible property of another intentionally, recklessly, or by negligence using fire, explosives, or other dangerous means; intentionally or recklessly tampers with tangible property of another so as to endanger person or property; intentionally or recklessly causes another to suffer pecuniary loss by deception or threat;Disorderly Conduct intentionally defaces or otherwise damages tangible public property or tangible property of another with graffiti by use of any aerosol spray-paint can or similar marking device; intentionally damages real or personal property of another; or intentionally defaces personal, private or public property by discharging a paintball gun or paintball marker at that property.

There are several different circumstances to be considered when it comes to the penalties you face if you commit criminal mischief. Criminal mischief is a felony of the third degree if you intentionally cause pecuniary loss in excess of $5,000, or you caused a substantial interruption or impairment of public communication, transportation, supply of water, gas or power, or other public service. If found guilty of a felony of the third degree, you could face up to 7 years imprisonment and/or fines up to $15,000. It is a misdemeanor of the second degree if you intentionally cause pecuniary loss in excess of $1,000. If found guilty of a second degree misdemeanor, you could face up to 2 years imprisonment and/or fines of $5,000. It is a misdemeanor of the third degree if you intentionally or recklessly cause pecuniary loss in excess of $500 or causes a loss in excess of $150 occurs from graffiti. If found guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree, you could face up to one-year imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $2,000. Identity Theft  Otherwise, criminal mischief is a summary offense. If found guilty, you could face up to 90 days imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $300. If you are facing criminal mischief charges, it is important to meet with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. A criminal defense attorney will help to establish the circumstances of your case and assure your case the best possible outcome.​

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