California Penal Code Section 594

Definition

Vandalism under California Penal Code Section 594, is a criminal offense and it is normally filed as either a misdemeanor or felony. Vandalism is when someone intentionally disfigures or damages someone else’s property, which can be a building, an automobile or anything that is valuable.

Example

A common example of Vandalism is when someone sprays graffiti on a business building.

Elements of the Crime

In order to take an Vandalism CPC 594 case to trial, certain elements of the crime will have to be proven. This includes:

• The defendant destroys, disfigure or ruins another person’s property
• The defendant did so deliberately

Punishments for CPC 594

These penalties are to be determined by a judge and he/she will make a decision based on the circumstances surrounding the case, the individual’s criminal history, and the value of the property.

When found guilty of Vandalism, it is usually filed as either an infraction, misdemeanor  or felony, which includes:

Vandalizing items worth less than two hundred and fifty dollars is an infraction punishable by community service and up to one thousand dollars in fines

Vandalizing items worth less than $400 but more than $250 is a misdemeanor  punishable by up to one year in jail and up to one thousand dollars in fines

Vandalizing items worth more than $400 is a felony  punishable by up to one year in jail and up to ten  thousand dollars in fines

If the guilty party is a repeat offender charges and jail time may increase. In addition, the judge may order suspension of his/her driver’s license, enrollment in community service and counseling. In addition, if damages are worth more than ten thousand dollars, the fines will be fifty thousand dollars.

Legal Defenses for California Penal Code 594

A good lawyer can present many legal and valid defenses for Vandalism charges under California Penal Code 594  to prove someone’s innocence. MacGregor and Collins is based in Orange County, California, and has successfully defended  those who were falsely accused of Vandalism. Call (949) 250-6097 to speak to a lawyer, should you be on trial for Vandalism.