1. Graffiti Offenses And Penalties
Graffiti is one form of vandalism, which is a criminal offense in all states in the United States. Each
state has its own charges and penalties for dealing with acts of graffiti. In the state of Florida, graffiti
can range from a relatively minor criminal charge to a severe offense, depending on the offender's
past record and the severity of the vandalism. Even a minor charge can have a serious impact on
your current and future life. Beyond the court ordered penalties, your personal and professional
opportunities may hampered by a criminal record.
Breakdown of Charges
There are a number of different charges for graffiti and other forms of vandalism in Florida. They are
broken down by the value of the damage, site of the graffiti, and the individual's criminal history as
follows:
• First offense, less than $200 in damage: Second degree misdemeanor
• First offense, $200-$1000 in damage: First degree misdemeanor
• First offense, greater than $1000 in damage: Third degree felony
• Second offense, any amount of damage: Third degree felony
• Damaging a public service: Third degree felony
• Damaging a religious site: Third degree felony
Vandalism Penalties
The greater the degree of your charge, the more severe the penalties. The range of penalties for
graffiti charges in Florida are specified below:
For a misdemeanor conviction:
• Probation
• Fine of at least $250 for a first conviction, $500 for a second conviction, $1000 for a third conviction
• Restitution to pay for graffiti damage
• Community service
For a felony conviction:
• Up to 5 years in prison
• Maximum of $5000 in fines
• Additional fines of at least $250, $500, or $1000 for a first, second, or third conviction respectively
• Restitution for damage caused by graffiti
• Community service
If you have been charged with a graffiti offense, you may be facing severe penalties if convicted. It is
therefore important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side to help protect your
rights and defend your case. Anyone accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty, and a criminal
defense attorney will help you determine the best course of legal action for your situation.
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