Lathan M Graham

It is illegal to intentionally damage someone else's property by destroying it, making it unusable, defacing it, or contaminating it with chemicals or toxic substances. The offense includes damaging merchandise in stores and marking or defacing government property. A violation is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months 29 days in jail and a $2,500 fine. The charge is enhanced to a Class E felony (1-6 years prison) in certain circumstances, such as for repeat offenses or especially serious property damage.

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500

Burglary is illegally entering a building, vehicle, or freight car without the owner's permission with the intent to commit a felony, steal, or assault someone, or actually committing those crimes inside; entering means any part of your body or any object controlled by you (including remote-controlled devices) intruding into the space. Burglary of a building other than a home is a Class D felony (2 to 12 years in prison, up to $5,000 fine), while burglary of a vehicle is a Class E felony (1 to 6 years in prison, up to $3,000 fine).

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

Domestic assault is when someone commits assault (hitting, attacking, threatening, or attempting to injure) against a domestic abuse victim—which includes current or former spouses, people living together, dating partners, family members by blood or marriage, or children of people in these relationships. Punishment depends on whether it's a first or second offense and the method used, ranging from the same penalties as basic assault to enhanced felony charges for repeat offenses.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000