How Serious is Vandalism as a Crime?
April 9, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed
Vandalism might seem like a minor offense, but in San Jose—and throughout California—it’s treated as a serious crime. Even actions that appear harmless, like graffiti or minor property damage, can lead to criminal charges and lasting legal consequences. What may seem like a momentary decision can quickly escalate into a costly and complex legal matter.
What Acts May Constitute Vandalism in Redwood City, CA?
Vandalism occurs when you alter, destroy, or deface property belonging to someone else or that is a public use property. You may also face vandalism charges if you cause intentional harm to property you jointly own with a spouse. Typical acts of vandalism that result in criminal charges include:
- Spray painting or tagging a property
- Slashing tires or intentionally scratching or scraping a car’s paint
- Breaking windows
- Defacing public property, such as park benches
- Altering or removing street signs
You may face vandalism charges (CPC §594) if you are caught or it is proven beyond a reasonable doubt that you intentionally defaced a property. Battering a property with your hands or feet to cause intentional harm may constitute vandalism. The courts will look at the severity of the damage to a property and the type of vandalism you participate in to determine the seriousness of a vandalism crime.
The Severity of Charges Depends on the Nature of the Vandalism
While many vandalism crimes result in misdemeanor charges, some intentional acts of vandalism are considered felonies. Misdemeanors are a lesser charge but can still end in significant consequences to you.
The punishment for vandalism becomes more aggressive and may result in felony charges when vandalism equates to a hate crime or more severe criminal charges. The cost of damage can increase the charge as well. Felony charges for vandalism may result from the following acts:
- Painting, drawing, or altering a property to display hate symbols, such as swastikas
- Targeting a place of worship, governmental agency, healthcare facility, or transit property
- Participating in gang-related vandalism
- Any vandalizing act resulting in $400 or more in damage
- Experiencing prior convictions for vandalism
Even seemingly minor acts of vandalism can escalate, leading to felony charges because property damage is costly and can lead to harsher punishments under California wobbler law.
Possible Penalties for Vandalism in California
It is always best to explore your rights and consider criminal defense even when facing misdemeanor charges. Possible penalties for vandalism crimes in Redwood City resulting in a misdemeanor conviction include:
- Fines: For a first-time conviction, fines may range up to $1,000. Subsequent convictions may result in fines up to $5,000.
- Jail Time or Probation: The courts may order up to one year in county jail. Probation orders require you to comply with the conditions a court establishes.
- Restitution: Paying for the costs to repair acts of vandalism may be ordered to compensate for financial loss.
- Community Service: Participating in a service-oriented program allows you to participate in repairing the harm caused to property. Community service is also a deterrent to future acts.
Vandalism crimes leading to felony convictions produce more severe outcomes. Potential felony vandalism penalties include:
- Fines: Fines can range up to or even exceed $10,000.
- Jail or Prison Sentencing: A period of incarceration can exceed one year. However, longer sentences in state facilities can occur depending on a vandalism act.
Community service and restitution may also be a part of your sentencing. Additionally, a felony vandalism conviction can impact your future. Getting a job, securing desirable housing, and other social stigmas accompanying severe criminal offenses can create ongoing hardships years after a conviction.
Discuss a Vandalism Charge With a Redwood City, CA Criminal Defense Attorney
Even misdemeanor vandalism convictions can be costly to you. These charges should be taken seriously as a crime. Every situation is different, and what might seem like a minor incident could carry unexpected legal weight. Whether you’ve been falsely accused, acted without malicious intent, or were unaware of the law, a strong legal defense can make a significant difference in the outcome. Contact a knowledgeable Redwood City criminal defense lawyer today to protect your rights, explore your options, and build a path forward.
Contact our Criminal Defense Law Firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Today For Help
For more information please contact our criminal defense law firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys at the nearest location for a free consultation.
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 217-8818
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500