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Criminal Mischief in Columbus Defense Attorney
Criminal property damage is a major crime in the state of Ohio. Like criminal damage and vandalism, criminal mischief is a property damage crime that attracts major penalties and fines. If you have been charged with criminal mischief in Columbus or other Ohio areas, a lawyer can assist in getting you out of trouble. A lawyer can help you sort out your situation to determine the best possible course of action. Call Attorney Adam Burke now at (614) 280-9122 for your free consultation.
Definition: Ohio Criminal Mischief
Ohio Criminal mischief deals with damage caused to property, like vandalism. However, unlike vandalism, the umbrella offense of criminal mischief covers a lot of possible types of property damage.
In the state of Ohio, to be found guilty of Criminal Mischief the prosecution must prove that you:
- Knowingly shift, destroy, deface, damage, or tamper with property that belongs to someone else.
- Employ a tear gas grenade, stink bomb, smoke generator, or a similar device to interfere or stop others from enjoying or using their property.
- Tamper with, move, or destroy property signs or boundary markers.
- Tamper with, move, or destroy a safety device, which causes it to lose its effectiveness and put others at jeopardy.
Criminal mischief, depending on where it took place, may be considered a 3rd, 2nd, or 1st degree misdemeanor.
In some cases, if a person was harmed as a result of the offender’s actions, the criminal mischief is charged as felony of the 5th or the 4th degree. It may also be charged as a felony if the value of the property involved in the mischief was significant.
Penalties for Criminal Mischief in Columbus
For a 3rd to 1st degree misdemeanor, the penalty is from up to 60 days to 6 months in the local jails, with fines ranging from up to $500 to $1000. A 4th degree felony, the prison time is 6 to 18 months, with fines of up to $5000. For a 3rd degree felony, the prison time is 1 to 5 years in jail, with fines of up to $10,000. 1
Attorney Adam Burke Llc — Columbus, Ohio Criminal Mischief Lawyer
If you have been charged with criminal mischief in Columbus or any of the surrounding areas in Ohio, contact Attorney Adam Burke Llc. Attorney Adam Burke is an experienced defense attorney who will fight for your rights and your freedom. Call Attorney Adam Burke today for your free consultation at (614) 280-9122.