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 Arkansas, vandalism is typically referred to as 'criminal mischief' and is covered under Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-38-101 et seq. The law defines criminal mischief as the intentional or knowing damage, destruction, defacement, or alteration of someone else's property without their consent. This includes acts such as graffiti, tampering with utilities, and damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, or schools. The severity of the charges and the penalties imposed depend on the extent of the damage and the cost to repair or replace the property. Criminal mischief can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. The specific classification of the offense and the associated penalties are determined by the value of the property damage, with higher value incidents resulting in more severe charges.