Penal Code section 594 defines vandalism as maliciously defacing with graffiti or other inscribed material, damaging, or destroying real or personal property belonging to someone else. Penalties are tiered largely by the dollar amount of damage, distinguishing infraction, misdemeanor, and felony-eligible ranges. It is a distinct statute from theft since no taking of property is required.
Apartment communities, parking structures, and commercial properties in Sacramento regularly deal with graffiti, broken windows, keyed vehicles, and damaged common-area fixtures, all of which typically fall under this statute. Patrol officers documenting vandalism should photograph damage promptly and estimate or note repair costs when available, since valuation affects charging level.
Security officers generally do not have authority to compel restitution or repair; their function is documentation, timely reporting to police, and — where a suspect is observed committing the act — potential private-person detention consistent with training and client policy. Officers should avoid confronting vandalism suspects alone in isolated areas given elevated risk of flight or confrontation.
Vandalism cost thresholds have been adjusted by past legislation; verify current statutory amounts before using them in training materials.
Related entries
Official sources
- [1]Cal. Penal Code § 594California Legislative Information
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General industry and regulatory usage — not legal advice, and not an endorsement by BSIS, the Department of Consumer Affairs, or any law-enforcement agency. Statutes, regulations, and local ordinances change; verify current text at the official government source or with your attorney.