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Graffiti & Criminal Damage

Graffiti on railway bridge walkway Some consider graffiti as art but others see it as a blight on private and public property. For the most part it consists of ‘Tags’ or nicknames.

If you graffiti anywhere without the owners permission then it ‘s Criminal Damage.

No permission = Criminal Damage

Definition

A person who without lawful excuse destroys or damages any property belonging to another, intending to destroy or damage any such property or being reckless as to whether any such property would be destroyed or damaged shall be guilty of an offence.

  • Damage under £5,000 --> Max Prison Sentence 3 months
  • Damage over £5,000 --> Max Prison Sentence = 10 years

Reckless

This means that you may not have intended to cause damage, but it would be obvious to most people that what you were doing would cause damage. E.g. throwing stones near windows.

Arson

If you damage things with fire there is always the chance that things will get out of hand and spread further than you intended. Max Prison Sentence = LIFE

Fire can Kill

Buses, Trains & Trams

More and more public transport has CCTV cameras on board. If you are caught on camera it is easy to find out who you are.

Vandalism

From smashing bus shelters and phone boxes to breaking windows and keying cars, it’s all criminal damage. It causes upset, misery and a great deal of cost to you, your family, and other people. You might need a public phone in an emergency so don’t damage it.

Racist

If the damage is racist or anti religious, then the offence is aggravated. Max Prison Sentence = 14 years

Searching

You can be searched if you’re going equipped to damage Police can search you for any items you may have with you for causing criminal damage e.g. spray cans & pens.

Parks & Play areas

Leave them for children to enjoy. Please don’t break them or leave smashed bottles all over the place.

Cost

Don’t tell us who you are. Tell us what you KNOW ! Warwickshire County Council spends a large amount of money each year repairing and clearing up damage and graffiti.

That means there is less money to spend on better things. I’m sure you could think of something your street or local area could do with for that amount of money?

Worksheet Graphic You can also download a PDF copy of this document to use as handouts in a classroom environment or to give to a child (children) in your care, by clicking the link below.

Graffiti and Criminal Damage - Handout