Criminal Damage to Property involves allegations that an individual knowingly damaged another person's property without consent. These cases may involve vehicles, homes, businesses, public property, or other personal property.
The severity of the charge depends largely upon the value of the alleged damage, the type of property involved, and other aggravating circumstances. Depending upon the facts of the case, Criminal Damage to Property may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony carrying significant fines and possible imprisonment.
A conviction may also expose an individual to civil liability for the alleged damage in addition to criminal penalties.
An experienced attorney can review the evidence, challenge the valuation of the alleged damage, examine whether the State can prove the required intent, and work to minimize the consequences associated with the charge.
SOURCE(S): 720 ILCS 5/21-1