Property crime is a category of crime, usually involving the property of another, that includes, among other crimes, burglary, vandalism, trespassing and theft. This may involve force, or the threat of force, in cases like robbery or extortion. Unlike violent crimes or sex crimes, most property crimes target objects instead of people. Still, many property crimes—like arson and burglary—endanger the lives of victims, and the law takes this into consideration during prosecution.

Crimes against property are divided into two groups: stolen property and destroyed property. Below are some examples of crimes involving destruction of property.

• Criminal Mischief/Vandalism. Deliberate destruction or defacement of property owned by another or that you jointly own with another. Criminal mischief may be a misdemeanor or felony depending on the value of damage.
• Illegally entering or remaining on another’s property or vehicle. Unlike burglary, you do not necessarily need to intend to commit a crime within the structure to be charged with trespassing. The severity of the penalties may depend on factors such as whether the premises are classified as agricultural land or are enclosed in a manner which is meant to exclude intruders.
• Defacing Property. Involves the destruction, removal, damaging, or defacing of a historical monument. You could also be charged with defacing property if you damage or deface another’s property without their permission by painting, drawing, writing, or other means.
• Interfering with property of a utility or an institution with the intention of impairing, stopping, or interrupting the service. You could also be charged with criminal tampering if you tamper with the property of a utility to make unauthorized use of a cable or Wi-Fi signal.
• Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly setting fire to, burning, or using an explosive in order to: Damage or destroy your own property, or damage or destroy the property of another without that person’s consent.

The level of the crime and the possible penalties usually depends on the value of the item(s) stolen, from whom they are stolen, whether a weapon was involved or whether injuries were sustained.

• Intentional Damage: Charges are often more severe when the destruction is deemed intentional, as opposed to being a result of negligence factors.
• Value Assessment: The financial value of the damaged property significantly influences the severity of the charges. High-value losses can escalate a misdemeanor to a felony.
• Location Impact: Certain locations, such as schools or places of worship, may invoke stricter penalties due to their societal importance.
• Repeat Offenses: Individuals with a history of destruction-related charges face harsher consequences, reflecting a pattern of behavior that the law seeks to deter.

You may also be responsible for paying restitution to any victims. Victims can seek reimbursement for repair costs, lost property value, and other related expenses, which can significantly alleviate the financial burden caused by the offense. This could be an exorbitant amount that could affect your future in many ways. It could also hinder employment opportunities, education access, housing challenges and carry a social stigma.

Because these charges carry such harsh consequences, you need the Best Criminal Defense Attorney in Colorado.  Call Beck Law to guide you through the legal process and defend your rights.