Richard Adden Wagner

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

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

It is illegal to make false reports to police about crimes or emergencies knowing the information is false, or to lie to police in response to their questions about crimes with intent to obstruct their investigation. This includes intentionally reporting false bomb, fire, or emergency threats knowing it will cause emergency response, frighten people, or close public places. Violations regarding false crime reports are Class D felonies (2-12 years and up to $5,000 in fines), while false emergency reports are Class C felonies (higher penalties).

Penalty: Class D felony; 2-12 years; fine up to $5,000