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 Maryland, vandalism is referred to as malicious destruction of property and is covered under Maryland Criminal Law Code Ann. § 6-301. The law defines the offense as willfully and maliciously destroying, injuring, or defacing the real or personal property of another. The severity of the charges and penalties depends on the value of the property damage. If the damage is valued at less than $1,000, it is treated as a misdemeanor, with potential penalties including imprisonment for up to 60 days and/or a fine of up to $500. For damage valued at $1,000 or more, the offense is also a misdemeanor but carries a harsher penalty of up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500. Additionally, Maryland law requires individuals convicted of vandalism to pay restitution to the property owner. Specific acts of vandalism, such as graffiti, may also be subject to local ordinances that impose additional fines or community service requirements.