Which degree of criminal mischief covers intentional or reckless damage of $250 or more?

Which degree of criminal mischief covers intentional or reckless damage of $250 or more?

• A. First degree
• B. Second degree
• C. Third degree
• D. Fourth degree

Answer: (D)

Grading criminal mischief is keyed to how much property is damaged and the mental state of the actor. The degree classifies the offense by the damage threshold, and the required intent or recklessness defines the mental element. When the statute specifies intentional or reckless damage of $250 or more, that amount places the offense in the category that recognizes both a substantial damage level and the actor’s awareness or disregard of risk. So the fourth degree is the best fit here, because it covers damage at or above $250 under a framework where the conduct can be intentional or reckless. If the damage were smaller, a lower degree or different charge would apply; if it were larger, the degree could rise depending on the statute's thresholds.

Grading criminal mischief is keyed to how much property is damaged and the mental state of the actor. The degree classifies the offense by the damage threshold, and the required intent or recklessness defines the mental element. When the statute specifies intentional or reckless damage of $250 or more, that amount places the offense in the category that recognizes both a substantial damage level and the actor’s awareness or disregard of risk. So the fourth degree is the best fit here, because it covers damage at or above $250 under a framework where the conduct can be intentional or reckless. If the damage were smaller, a lower degree or different charge would apply; if it were larger, the degree could rise depending on the statute's thresholds.