Vandalism is generally the damage, destruction, defacing, or alteration of tangible public or private property, done with criminal intent (intentionally or knowingly). Vandalism charges often arise from (1) damage to a home or dwelling; (2) damage to a place of business; (3) damage to a motor vehicle; (4) damage to a school; (5) defacement or destruction of public or private property (graffiti, etc.); or (6) tampering with public water, gas, power, or communications.

Vandalism is sometimes classified as criminal mischief or reckless damage or destruction of property under state laws. These laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—usually in the penal or criminal code.

In Alaska, vandalism is typically referred to as 'criminal mischief' under state law. Alaska Statutes Title 11. Criminal Law, Chapter 46. Offenses Against Property, specifically addresses criminal mischief and outlines the penalties for such offenses. Criminal mischief in Alaska is categorized into first, second, third, and fourth degrees, with the severity of the charge depending on factors such as the amount of damage, the intent behind the act, and whether the act created a risk of injury to others. For example, first-degree criminal mischief involves damage of $25,000 or more, or creating a substantial risk of injury to any person, and is classified as a Class B felony. Lesser degrees of criminal mischief involve lower amounts of damage and carry correspondingly lesser charges, ranging from Class C felonies to misdemeanors. Vandalism involving graffiti, damage to utilities, or defacement of property would fall under these statutes. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and restitution to the victim for damages.