Vandalism in Rhode Island is the intentional damage or destruction of another person's property under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-44-1. Common scenarios include graffiti, broken windows, keyed cars, damaged buildings, and destruction of business signs or equipment. Penalties scale with the dollar value of the damage. Under $500 is typically a misdemeanor with up to 1 year jail and fines up to $1,000. Over $500 can become a felony with up to 5 years prison and higher fines. Most vandalism cases involve young adults or juveniles, often alcohol-involved, and prosecutors frequently offer diversion programs for first offenders that avoid a permanent record.
