Criminal Mischief (F) requires which mental state and damage threshold?

• A. Intent to damage property over $250
• B. Reckless damage to property
• C. Intent to damage property $250 or less
• D. Intent to damage property to impede rescue operations

Answer: (A)

Criminal Mischief at this level requires a deliberate intent to damage property and a damage amount that exceeds a set threshold. The reason the best choice is the one that says you must intend to damage property and that the damage amount is over $250 is that the statute calls for both elements: the mental state must be purposeful (you meant to damage) and the property damage must surpass the monetary threshold to qualify as a felony level offense. If the damage is only reckless, you’re lacking the required intent, so the charge would be a lesser offense. If the damage is $250 or less, it also doesn’t meet the felony threshold and would be a lower-degree charge. The motive to impede rescue operations isn’t part of the required elements for this felony; the key factors are intentional damage and the amount of damage. For example, intentionally breaking property causing $300 in damage meets both elements and fits the felony mischief charge.