Indiana Vandalism Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 06, 2018
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Sure, it may sound like harmless youthful indiscretion to scale the town water tower and spray paint your distinctive "tag" for everyone to see. Even the official statutory name for vandalism in Indiana sounds whimsical -- criminal mischief. But it's no laughing matter and can land you in prison and set you back a few thousand dollars in fines.
Generally speaking, vandalism (or criminal mischief) occurs when an individual destroys or defaces another's property without their permission; this is true even for acts in violation of the law that could arguably be considered "art." Other forms of vandalism include "keying" someone's car, breaking the windows of a local business, or etching your initials on a park bench. Whatever the case, the act must be intentional.
Learn more about Indiana's vandalism laws (charged as criminal mischief) in the following table.
| Statute | Indiana Code § 35-43-1-2 |
| Statutory Definition of Vandalism (Criminal Mischief) | A person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally damages or defaces property of another person without the other person's consent commits criminal mischief . |
| Classifications & Penalties | Class B misdemeanor if pecuniary loss is less than $750; up to 180 days in jail, up to a $1,000 fine. Class A misdemeanor if pecuniary loss is between $750 and $50,000; up to 1 yr. in jail, up to a $5,000 fine. Level 6 felony (6 mos. to 2 1/2 yrs. in prison, up to a $10,000 fine) if:
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| Aggravated Charges | A person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally damages (1) a structure used for religious worship; (2) a school or community center; (3) agricultural property (as defined by 32-30-6-1); or (4) personal property contained in any of the above, commits institutional mischief.
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| Administrative Penalty for Use of Graffiti | Driver's license may be suspended for up to 1 year. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Indiana Vandalism Laws: Related Resources
Get Legal Help with Your Vandalism Case in Indiana
Even minor vandalism can result in a substantial jail sentence, and suspension of your driver's license for a year if you're busted for graffiti. But with the right legal defense, you have a much better chance of either beating the charge or getting a relatively lenient sentence upon conviction. Learn more about the details of your vandalism charge speaking to an Indiana criminal defense attorney today.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
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- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
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Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Indiana attorneys offer free consultations.
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