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 New Hampshire, vandalism is typically referred to as 'criminal mischief' under state law. According to New Hampshire statutes, specifically RSA 634:2, criminal mischief is defined as intentionally or recklessly damaging, defacing, altering, or destroying the property of another. This can include damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, schools, and public or private property such as graffiti or tampering with utilities. The severity of the charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors such as the extent of the damage, the value of the property affected, and whether the act caused or could have caused interruption or impairment of public services. Penalties for criminal mischief in New Hampshire can include fines, restitution, and imprisonment, with more severe penalties for higher degrees of damage or if the act endangers human life.