Malicious Mischief Charges
Have you or a loved one been accused of committing malicious mischief?
This can be a serious charge, and you may want a qualified criminal defense attorney. Malicious mischief is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of destructive acts, from vandalism to property damage. It is a charge that can lead to fines, probation, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense. However, just because you have been accused does not mean you are guilty.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help build a strong case on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair trial and the appropriate outcome for your unique situation. Contact us today to start building your defense.
Is Malicious Mischief a felony in Washington?
Washington State has strict laws to deter and punish those who engage in malicious mischief. This crime involves causing damage or destruction to property or belongings that belong to someone else without their permission. The severity of the offense depends on the extent of the damage, but generally, malicious mischief is considered a serious crime in Washington. In some cases, it may even be charged as a felony offense.
The penalties for this crime can include large fines, restitution payments, and even imprisonment. Those charged with malicious mischief in Washington should seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney to help them navigate the legal system and obtain the best possible outcome in their case.
What are the degrees of Malicious Mischief in Washington?
There are three degrees of malicious mischief in Washington state. Malicious mischief in the first and second degrees are class B and C felonies, while malicious mischief in the third degree is a gross misdemeanor.
Malicious mischief in the first degree.
(1) A person is guilty of malicious mischief in the first degree if he or she knowingly and maliciously:
- Causes physical damage to the property of another in an amount exceeding five thousand dollars.
- Causes an interruption or impairment of service rendered to the public by physically damaging or tampering with an emergency vehicle or property of the state, a political subdivision thereof, or a public utility or mode of public transportation, power, or communication.
- Causes an impairment of the safety, efficiency, or operation of an aircraft by physically damaging or tampering with the aircraft or aircraft equipment, fuel, lubricant, or parts.
- Causes an interruption or impairment of service rendered to the public by, without lawful authority, physically damaging, destroying, or removing an official ballot deposit box or ballot drop box or, without lawful authority, damaging, destroying, removing, or tampering with the contents thereof.
(2) Malicious mischief in the first degree is a class B felony.
Malicious mischief in the second degree.
(1) A person is guilty of malicious mischief in the second degree if he or she knowingly and maliciously:
- Causes physical damage to the property of another in an amount exceeding seven hundred fifty dollars
- Creates a substantial risk of interruption or impairment of service rendered to the public by physically damaging or tampering with an emergency vehicle or property of the state, a political subdivision thereof, or a public utility or mode of public transportation, power, or communication
- Creates a substantial risk of interruption or impairment of service rendered to the public by, without lawful authority, physically damaging, destroying, or removing an official ballot deposit box or ballot drop box or, without lawful authority, damaging, destroying, removing, or tampering with the contents thereof.
(2) Malicious mischief in the second degree is a class C felony.