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 Missouri, vandalism is typically referred to as 'property damage' and is covered under Missouri Revised Statutes, specifically in Chapter 569 which deals with offenses against property. The state categorizes property damage into first and second degree. First-degree property damage, which is a Class E felony, occurs when a person knowingly damages property of another to the extent that the damage decreases the value of that property by more than $750, or when the damage is inflicted to an extent that the property is rendered useless for its intended purpose. Second-degree property damage is a Class B misdemeanor and covers instances where the damage is less than $750 or involves tampering with property to inconvenience others without causing substantial monetary loss. Vandalism charges can arise from various acts, including damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, schools, and public utilities, as well as graffiti. The severity of the charges can vary based on the extent of the damage and whether the act was committed knowingly and with criminal intent.