STREET LAWChapter 10 – Crimes Against Property

Vandalism

VandalismVandalism, also known as malicious mischief, is willful destruction of, or damage to, the property of anotherVandalism is responsible for millions of dollars of damage each yearIt includes such things as:• Breaking windows• Ripping down fences• Writing graffiti• Breaking off car hood ornamentsDepending on the extent of the damage, vandalism can be either a felony or a misdemeanor

• Why do young people sometimes commit acts of vandalism?

• Vandalism is often the result of alcohol or drug use, group or peer pressure, a desire for attention, thrill seeking, anger, or disdain for private property.

• What, if anything, can be done to reduce vandalism?• Some possible solutions to school vandalism include

publicizing the problem; applying firm, fair, and consistent discipline within the school; conducting social programs and acquiring increased funding to deal with youth gangs; reducing the size of classes; and taking steps to instill pride in the local school and community.

• Should parents be criminally responsible for willful damage caused by their children? Why or why not?

• Some states have laws that make parents liable up to certain dollar amounts for damage willfully caused by their children. Should the child’s age make a difference? Opinions differ as to whether or not this is an effective strategy.

• If you saw two youths throwing rocks through the windows of a school at night, would you report the youths to the police? Why or why not?

• Suppose you saw two friends throwing rocks through the windows of a neighbor’s home. Would you report your friends to the police? Why or why not?

• Did you answer both questions the same way? If not, why?

POLL

• Finding policy solutions to vandalism at school• www.pollev.com/allisonmcfad576