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 Oklahoma, vandalism is addressed under the terms 'malicious injury to property' and is codified in the Oklahoma Statutes, Title 21, Sections 1760 to 1767. The law defines the offense as willfully and maliciously injuring, defacing, or destroying any real or personal property of another. This includes acts such as graffiti, damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, schools, and tampering with utilities. The severity of the charges and the penalties imposed depend on the value of the property damaged. For property damage under $1,000, it is considered a misdemeanor, carrying a potential jail sentence of up to one year and/or a fine. If the damage is $1,000 or more, the offense is a felony, which can result in imprisonment, a fine, or both. Additionally, Oklahoma law provides for restitution to the victim for the amount of the loss caused by the vandalism.