In November of 2012, our client was charged by the Newport Police Department with malicious mischief (vandalism).
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 11-44-1, malicious mischief is defined as every person who shall willfully and maliciously or mischievously injure or destroy or write upon, paint, or otherwise deface the property of another, or obstruct the use of the property of another, or obstruct another in the prosecution of his or her lawful business or pursuits, in any manner, the punishment of which is not specifically provided for by statute.
The penalties if convicted include a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) and/or imprisonment not exceeding one year, and shall be liable to make restitution for the injury or damage caused. Every person convicted of a first offense under this section shall be required to perform up to one hundred (100) hours of public community restitution work, and for a second or subsequent conviction shall be required to perform up to two hundred (200) hours of public community restitution work. Provided, further that every person who shall willfully and maliciously or mischievously injure or destroy or write upon, paint or otherwise deface government property, or obstruct the use of that property, shall be punished in accordance with this statute.
Malicious mischief or vandalism can be charged as a domestic violence crime. In that case, domestic violence counseling and a no-contact order may be imposed as additional penalties.
However, due to Attorney Humphrey's experience and skill in handling these types of cases, in January of 2013, the case was dismissed. Our client is immediately eligible for an expungement.
If you or a family member has been charged with malicious mischief, robbery or other property crimes, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.