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 Idaho, vandalism is addressed under the statutes concerning malicious injury to property. According to Idaho Code § 18-7001, a person commits the crime of malicious injury to property if they willfully damage, destroy, or deface the property of another, or if they place any graffiti on the property without the consent of the owner. This can include damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, schools, and other private or public property. The severity of the charges and the penalties imposed can vary based on the extent of the damage and the value of the property affected. For damages exceeding $1,000, the offense is considered a felony, potentially leading to imprisonment and fines. For damages under $1,000, the offense is typically a misdemeanor, which may result in a jail sentence and/or a fine. Additionally, Idaho law also addresses the tampering with public utilities under separate statutes, which can carry its own set of penalties.