Teens who engage in activities such as spray-painting graffiti in public places might not fully understand the harm their actions may cause. Not only could such behavior leave property owners facing significant financial losses, but the outcome of the situation could also leave a youth facing dire legal concerns. An incident in which authorities received reports of graffiti and property damage at a park in Washington has left a teen facing felony malicious mischief charges.
Incident report
Authorities say they responded to reports of the incident on a recent Saturday afternoon. Upon arriving at the park, they claim to have spotted a teen spray-painting graffiti on numerous objects. They claim the teen initially ignored requests to stop the behavior and say that he attempted to resist before being taken into custody.
Authorities say they also learned that the teen was listed as missing/runaway in their system. Reports indicate that he stands accused of spray-painting as many as 15 objects at the park and causing nearly $1,000 in property damage. He is reportedly facing felony charges for malicious mischief in relation to the incident.
Felony malicious mischief
When an incident leaves a teen facing allegations of felony malicious mischief, parents in Washington might not know how best to approach the situation. Fortunately, there are attorneys who can address the situation a person is facing and provide advice on the best course of action with which to proceed. An attorney who understands what is at stake can help a client understand the available options and assist in preparing to seek the best outcome possible regarding his or her child’s future.