Revenge is a dish best served cold, but what happens when the breakup is still fresh, and your heart is on fire? In the days following a breakup, it’s normal to feel hurt, angry, and vengeful. If your ex-person, whether best friend or lover, wronged you in any way, seeking revenge may seem like the perfect solution. But before you take drastic measures, stop to think about the consequences. Revenge can be damaging not only to your relationship with the person you’re seeking retribution against, but also to your own mental health.
This is especially true if you intend to key up someone’s car. Continue below to learn just how much trouble that could get you into, plus what to do if you have already be charged with criminal mischief for doing so.
Criminal Mischief Charges in Indiana
It is a crime in Indiana to key up someone’s car. The legal consequences of this offense can be serious, including jail time and expensive fines. If you are facing charges for keying up a car, it is important to understand the gravity of the situation and speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Keying up a car is a form of criminal mischief. Under Indiana law, criminal mischief is defined as knowingly or intentionally damaging another person’s property. The offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the damage caused.
If the damage caused by keying up a car is less than $750, it is considered a Class B misdemeanor. The maximum penalty for a Class B misdemeanor is 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
If the damage caused by keying up a car is $750 or more, it is considered a Class C felony. The maximum penalty for a Class C felony is eight years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
In addition to the criminal penalties, a person who is convicted of keying up a car may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim for the cost of repairing the damage. This can be devastatingly expensive.
How to Protect Yourself Against the Maximum Penalties
If you have been charged with keying up a car, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. An experienced Indianapolis criminal defense attorney can review your case and help you understand your options. Do not risk your future by trying to navigate the criminal justice system on your own.
Get your future and your freedoms aligned with success by protecting yourself after an arrest. Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a meeting with our experienced Indianapolis criminal defense law firm. We can hold meetings over the phone or in person at our Indy-based office.
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