Criminal Mischief – also known as Vandalism – is charged in Greeley, Colorado when a person damages another person’s property. Teenagers often find themselves facing this charge after engaging in vandalism for fun. The attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office understand that teens sometimes make bad choices and find themselves in handcuffs for their mistakes. If your child has been charged, it is crucial to retain a top juvenile defense lawyer representing your child at the Weld County Courthouse.
Definition of Criminal Mischief, C.R.S. 18-4-501, in Colorado
In Colorado, the definition of Criminal Mischief, C.R.S. 18-4-501, is:
A person commits criminal mischief when he or she knowingly damages the real or personal property of one or more other persons, including property owned by the person jointly with another person or property owned by the person in which another person has a possessory or proprietary interest, in the course of a single criminal episode.
Common Acts of Vandalism in Greeley, Colorado
Acts of vandalism that can result in Criminal Mischief charges that are especially common for teenagers in Greeley are:
- Graffiti or tagging
- Keying a car
- Intentionally breaking a window
- Slashing car tires
- Egging a house
These acts often occur simply due to teenagers getting bored. Some friends might go out and tag playground equipment or throw rocks at a window just for kicks. Unfortunately, delinquent acts like vandalism can result in criminal charges.
Penalties for a Juvenile Criminal Mischief Adjudication in Weld County
Juveniles adjudicated of Criminal Mischief face different penalties than adults in Weld County. Adult defendants convicted of this offense may face fines, restitution payments, and even time at the Weld County Jail or Colorado DOC. However, juvenile courts focus more on rehabilitating juvenile defendants rather than punishing them. Hence, a teenager adjudicated of Criminal Mischief will likely be sentenced to probation rather than incarceration. He may also be required to pay restitution to cover the cost of the property he damaged.
How Can a Top Juvenile Defense Attorney Help You in Greeley, Colorado?
Has your teen been charged with Criminal Mischief in Greeley? If so, she will need the representation of a top criminal defense attorney. The juvenile defense attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office have successfully defended teenaged defendants for over 30 years. We can help your child by representing her at the juvenile court and helping to protect her future. Our greatest priority is to help your child avoid serious consequences due to a criminal record, such as applying to but being rejected from universities.