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Criminal Damage & Vandalism

Criminal Damage & Vandalism

Arizona Criminal Property Damage Defense Lawyers

In Arizona, the crime of criminal damage occurs when a person either intentionally or recklessly damages or defaces the property of another. At Tait & Hall, our criminal defense attorneys have decades of experience in advocating for the rights of individuals across the greater Phoenix area and Arizona.

Arizona Criminal Damage & Vandalism Laws

Classifications & Penalties

Depending on the level of offense, such as the value of the property damaged, the prosecution may pursue either felony or misdemeanor charges.

Felony Offenses

    • Damage of $10,000 or damage of $5,000 or more to a public utility = up to a four-year prison term, four years of probation and a fine of $150,000
    • Damage of $2,000 or more, but less than $10,000 = up to a 2.5-year prison term, three years of probation and a fine of $150,000
    • Damage of $1,000 or more, but less than $2,000 = up to two years in prison, three years of probation and a fine of $150,000

Misdemeanor Offenses

    • Damage of more than $250, but less than $1,000 = up to six months in jail, three years of probation and a fine of $2,500
    • Damage of $250 or less = up to four months in jail, two years of probation and a fine of $750

Damage Caused By Graffiti, Trespassing, Burglary, Or Arson

Graffiti is one of the most common reasons for criminal damage charges in Arizona. Courts will include labor costs, material costs, and costs associated with the equipment used to get rid of the graffiti to determine damages. Jail time is also likely for these offenses. Other related offenses can include trespassing, burglary, and arson.

Driving While Impaired

Another common type of criminal damage occurs when a person is driving while impaired and causes an accident. For example, after a driver runs over a stop sign, the prosecutor could argue that the driver’s reckless actions caused the damage to the stop sign.

Domestic Violence-Related Criminal Damage Charges

Criminal damage is also often charged as a domestic violence offense. In these situations, the defendant partially owns the damaged property. If a husband breaks a dish during an argument, he could face criminal damage charges because the wife also owns the dish.

Arizona Criminal Defense Attorneys

Consult With Our Skilled Legal Team

If you’ve been charged with criminal damage or vandalism, many defenses may be available to you— a violation of your Miranda rights, a lack of intent to cause damage, and more. By hiring an experienced lawyer, you’ll have on your side to fight for you. Here at Tait & Hall our attorneys promise to represent you with the utmost dedication and professionalism. 

Call our Phoenix office at (480) 405-6767 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. 

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