The Sanders Firm, P.C.: Criminal Mischief and Related Offenses
Although criminal mischief may sound like a term defining innocent behavior, at The Sanders Firm, P.C. in New York City we know that this just is not the case. In reading Article 145 New York State Penal Law, it becomes readily evident that criminal mischief and related offenses are not to be taken lightly. Criminal mischief involves someone damaging property that is not theirs and it becomes a felony when that property is worth more than $1,500 or when explosives are used.
Included Under Article 145
Article 145 includes a range of activities such as criminal mischief, criminal tampering, cemetery desecration, aggravated cemetery desecration, reckless endangerment of property, and tampering with consumer products. Also included under Article 145 are penalties for littering on railroad track and rights-of-way, making of graffiti, possession of graffiti making instruments and possession of taximeter accelerating device.
Criminal mischief involves the damaging of the property of another, while criminal tampering involves damaging property that in some way creates inconvenience to a person or the greater community, such as steam, water, gas or electric works. Reckless endangerment of property, which is a misdemeanor, involves behavior that could substantially damage property of another worth $250 or more. Cemetery desecration includes toppling headstones, destroying grounds, and in extreme instances removing and opening caskets and removing human remains. The more deplorable the desecration is the harsher the charges and punishment.
Tampering with consumer products refers to food, beverages, drugs, and generally anything for sale to the public. If the tampering causes a substantial risk of harm to the public, such tampering is considered a class E felony.
What To Do If Charged
The Sanders Firm, P.C. believes that whenever anyone is charged with a crime that they should protect their rights to legal counsel and prior to answering any questions a defendant should contact their lawyer. That lawyer will then be present when investigators interview and interrogate the individual charged with criminal mischief or other such offenses as outline in Article 145. Defendants have rights that should not be given away. Remember that in the New York State you are innocent until proven guilty.
Call Us
If you have been arrested and charged under Article 145 New York State Penal Law criminal mischief and other related offenses, call The Sanders Firm, P.C. We will be present when investigators question you. As your legal representative, your lawyer will consider all evidence in the case, interview those connected with the case, and after careful evaluation offer an analysis of your situation in relationship to the charges.
Your legal representative will also consult with you regarding possible defenses and the best possible manner in which to proceed with your case. The Sanders Firm, P.C. is experienced in working with the New York criminal justice system and understand the intricacies and complexities of it. We are devoted to making sure every client receives a fair trial. If you are, facing charges in relationship to Article 145 contact us; we will be your voice for justice.
