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Destroying or Damaging Property

Fight Destroy & Damage Property Charges in NSW

Accused of destroying or damaging property? Contact KPT Defence Lawyers at (02) 9267 5555 for expert defence guidance.

Types of Criminal Charges

Frequently Asked Questions

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Destroying or damaging property, involves intentionally causing harm to someone else’s property, which can include physical damage, defacement, or impairment of its function or value.

Damage defined/defining

‘Damage to Property’ encompasses the physical degradation or complete ruination of tangible assets. This includes the cost to restore or replace documents like stocks, bonds, deeds, mortgages, and bank deposits. However, the monetary value stated in these documents doesn’t fall under this classification.

The penalty will vary depending on the severity of the offence. This may include fines, a good behaviour bond, community service, or even imprisonment.

Factors such as the extent of the damage, the value of the property affected, prior criminal history, and the defendant’s intent can all impact the severity of the charge.

Typically, destroying property requires intent. If it was a genuine accident and not the result of intentional actions, you may have a defence against the charge.

Common defences can include lack of intent, mistaken identity, lack of evidence, or demonstrating that you had permission to be on or use the property in question.

If you believe you’ve been falsely accused, it’s crucial to consult with one of our experienced criminal defence lawyers immediately. We can help you gather evidence and build a defence to prove your innocence.

If you’ve been arrested or charged, it’s essential to exercise your right to remain silent and consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. They can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.

General Knowledge

Click on the options below to learn the answers to General Knowledge.

Section 195 of the Crimes Act 1900 enunciates the following regulations concerning the ‘damage or destruction of property’:

195 Destruction or Vandalism of Property

(1) Any individual who deliberately or heedlessly destroys or vandalises property that belongs to either someone else or themselves jointly with another individual shall be held accountable:
(a) and may face a maximum prison term of 5 years, or
(b) if the destruction or damage is carried out through the use of fire or explosives, and may face a maximum prison term of 10 years.

(1A) Any individual who, together with one or more persons, knowingly and without regard for consequences, causes destruction or damage to property that belongs to either someone else or themselves jointly with another individual shall be held accountable:

(a) and may face a maximum prison term of 6 years, or
(b) if the destruction or damage is carried out through the use of fire or explosives, and may face a maximum prison term of 11 years.

(2) Any individual who, amidst a public disorder, knowingly or without regard for consequences, causes destruction or damage to property that belongs to either someone else or themselves jointly with another individual shall be held accountable:

(a) and may face a maximum prison term of 7 years, or
(b) if the destruction or damage is carried out through the use of fire or explosives, and may face a maximum prison term of 12 years.

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