PL 145.20 · Article 145

Criminal Mischief in the First Degree

The most serious criminal mischief charge applies when damage exceeds $2,500, or when reckless conduct with fire, an explosive or a gun creates a grave risk of damage.

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What the prosecutor must prove

  • You damaged another person's property.
  • The damage exceeded $2,500, or the damage was caused by reckless use of fire, an explosive or a firearm.

Defenses that commonly apply

  • The valuation does not reach $2,500.
  • The conduct was not reckless.
  • You are not responsible for the damage.

Penalties and collateral consequences

A Class B Felony carries a maximum sentence of up to 25 years and a fine of up to Up to $5,000.

Every case turns on its own facts. The information on this page is general, not legal advice.

Related charges

Related practice areas

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