Breaking, defacing, or damaging someone’s property—even accidentally—can lead to Criminal Mischief charges under Penal Law §145.
What starts as an argument between neighbors or ex-partners can quickly become a felony once property damage is alleged. The law doesn’t require financial gain—intentional damage alone is enough.
Penalties depend on value:
- Less than $250: Misdemeanor
- More than $250: Felony
Even graffiti or keying a car can lead to arrest, restitution, and a criminal record.
An attorney can help challenge intent, verify value, or negotiate civil restitution instead of criminal punishment—especially when emotions ran high but no harm was truly meant.