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Criminal Law/Vandalism
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QUESTION: I recently broke up with my girlfriend because of her violent nature. Twice she has vandalized my vehicle after the break up. My cousin witnessed her keying my truck the first time but didn't mention it until later. The next night she spraypainted it, cut my tires, and completely keyed it. I know she's going to deny it but I called the poolice anyway and they took my statement. Nobody saw her the second time but I know she did it. Is there anyway I can get restitution? Or is she going to be able to get away with this and I'll be paying for my repairs out of pocket?
ANSWER: You said that your cousin witnessed her vandalizing your truck and that you called the police. However you didn't tell me what happened after that. I need to know what the police did and what you did afterwards as far as obtaining a warrant and having her arrested.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Well sir an officer came out and took some pictures and my statement. He sadi he was going to type the warrant up. As of today I believe the Judge has not signed the warrant. Hopefully Monday he will. Also what kind of punishment would she be subject to?
As you probably know there are fifty states and each state has its own laws thus the maximum and minimum penalies for the crime of vandalism would be different in each state. So there is no way for me to tell what kind of punishment that she would be subjected to besides saying anywhere from being placed on probation (if found guilty) to a jail sentence. You probably should be asking the police officer who you are dealing with what the expected jail time would be in your juristiction.
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Answers by Expert:
Jack Toomey
Expertise
Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. Only a judge could answer a question like that. I am also NOT a probation officer or parole officer so I cannot answer questions that relate to parole or probation. Also please keep in mind that every state has different laws. If you are planning to ask a question about a specific law or criminal charge that pertains to your state only it could be difficult to answer. I also cannot give you legal advice on what to do or what not to do in court. Retired police officer with 26 years experience. Worked in the patrol division as well as over 14 years in the detective bureau. Investigated a wide range of crime such as murder, rape, robbery, theft, fraud, missing persons, and other very sensitive crimes. I am available to answer your questions about criminal law and especially as it applies to police work. I taught at the police academy for several years and am especially knowledgeable about search and seizure. Any question about criminal law is welcome! Please don't ask me to do your homework or ask me questions that obviously come from your teachers or professors. I also do not do online interviews or surveys. Young people need to gain face to face interviewing skills. Local police officers usually are very agreeable to assist in these assignments.
Experience
I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience. I investigated almost every type of crime including murder, rape, theft, missing persons, fraud, and domestic abuse. I am very knowledgeable about search and seizure and taught at the police academy for several years on a variety of subjects. I can answer questions that a lot of attorneys cannot since they do not have "street experience".
Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Science degree in Criminolgy from the University of Maryland.
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