Criminal mischief is the charge most often applied to people accused of property crimes and vandalism. It often accompanies other criminal charges, such as Driving Under the Influence, hit and run charges, arson, or graffiti-related charges.
In Oregon, there are three degrees of criminal mischief charges.
- Criminal Mischief in the First Degree = Criminal Mischief 1 (I)
- Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree = Criminal Mischief 2 (II)
- Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree = Criminal Mischief 3 (II)
A conviction could result in probation, jail time, or even a prison sentence. Make sure you fully understand the charges, and all of your legal options. Set up a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer
Criminal Mischief 1 Charges
- Intentionally damages or destroys property;
- Causing more than $1000 worth of damage, and/or
- Using an explosive, damaging public utilities, or medical facilities.
In Oregon, this charge is a Class C Felony. Depending on the other charges and the circumstances, the accused person faces up to 5 years in prison, and up to $125,000 in fines.
Oregon law for Criminal Mischief I: ORS 164.365
Criminal Mischief 2 Charges
A person being charged with criminal mischief 2 is accused of:
- Intentionally or recklessly damaging property;
- Causing more than $500 worth of damage.
In Oregon, Criminal Mischief 2 is a Class A Misdemeanor: the accused person faces up to a year in jail, and up to $6250 in fines for this charge alone.
Oregon law for Criminal Mischief II: ORS 164.354
Criminal Mischief 3 Charges
- Tampering or interfering with someone else's property;
- With the intention of causing serious inconvenience.
This charge is a Class C Misdemeanor: the accused person faces up to 30 days in jail, and up to $1250 in fines.
Oregon law for Criminal Mischief III: ORS 164.345
Building a strong defense
In these cases, we make the state prove its case against you, step by step. Our attorneys have successfully defended many people facing criminal mischief charges in Oregon, getting the charges reduced or even dismissed.
Don't take your chances with your future: set up a free consultation with our criminal defense lawyers.