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 South Carolina, vandalism is addressed under the terms such as 'malicious injury to property' or 'malicious mischief' and is codified in the South Carolina Code of Laws. The state considers it a crime to willfully and maliciously injure, deface, damage, or destroy the property of another, whether public or private. The severity of the charges and the penalties imposed often depend on the value of the property damaged and the specific circumstances of the offense. For instance, if the damage is valued at $2,000 or less, it is considered a misdemeanor, which can result in fines and/or up to 30 days in jail. If the damage is more than $2,000 but less than $10,000, it is a felony, with potential penalties including fines and/or up to 5 years in prison. For damage exceeding $10,000, the crime is a felony that may lead to fines and/or up to 10 years in prison. Additionally, South Carolina law also specifically addresses vandalism to churches and schools, as well as the unlawful injury to telephone, telegraph, or electric utility lines, which can carry their own set of penalties.