Yes. Restitution to the property owner is a mandatory component of every Rhode Island vandalism conviction. The court orders the defendant to repay the cost of repairs or replacement plus any related damages. Restitution is non-dischargeable in bankruptcy, which means it follows you indefinitely until paid. The property owner may also pursue separate civil damages on top of criminal restitution. Restitution often plays a critical role in plea negotiations — paying the property owner before or during the case can support reduced charges, dismissal, or diversion that avoids conviction entirely. Address restitution proactively rather than waiting for the court to impose it after conviction.
