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 Hawaii, vandalism is addressed under the term 'Criminal Property Damage' which is found in the Hawaii Revised Statutes. The law categorizes various degrees of criminal property damage based on the severity of the act and the value of the damage caused. For instance, Criminal Property Damage in the First Degree (Section 708-820) involves intentionally or knowingly damaging property and thereby recklessly placing another person in danger of death or bodily injury, or the damage caused is to a public utility or agricultural equipment and exceeds $20,000. Lesser degrees of criminal property damage involve varying amounts of damage and circumstances, such as damage to a motor vehicle, which is often classified as Criminal Property Damage in the Third Degree (Section 708-822). Graffiti and defacement are also covered under these statutes. Penalties for vandalism in Hawaii can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the degree of the offense. It is important for individuals facing such charges to consult with an attorney to understand the specific implications of the charges they are facing.