Vandalism Hits Arizona Congresswoman’s Office

Tucson police are investigating an act of vandalism committed on the office of a U.S. Congresswoman in that city today. While they aren’t certain if the act is connected to the sweeping healthcare legislation recently passed, and supported by the Democrat Congresswoman, they are looking into the possibility.

Both the front glass door and side window of her office was either shot or punched out. According to the LA Times, it doesn’t appear as if anyone actually entered the office. The office was empty at the time and no injuries were reported.

The healthcare legislation has caused many people to have passionate reactions and supporters as well as critics of the bill are said to have protested outside of the hit office over the past several weeks.

Breaking the windows out of a building is considered “criminal damage”. This is a criminal offense regardless of who the windows belong to. The exact charge that the suspects of this offense would face, if caught, depends on the value of the damage.

For instance, if criminal damage results in an estimated $10,000, it is considered a Class 4 felony and punishable by up to 2 and a half years in prison. If the value is less than $250, however, it will be charged as a Class 2 misdemeanor and carry a potential 4 month jail sentence.

If the act is committed against property belonging to a church, school, or cemetery, the penalties are elevated and the charge is referred to as “aggravated criminal damage”.

Often, criminal damage is seen as a careless, youthful offense. However, in cases like this one, it is obvious that it can sometimes potentially be motivated by extreme anger or passion.

If you are facing charges of criminal damage or aggravated criminal damage, I may be able to help. Contact me today to discuss the charges against you and get some criminal defense legal advice.

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