CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Malicious Destruction of Property Defense (MDOP)
Representing Clients In Macomb, Washtenaw and Wayne County.
What is an MDOP Charge?
Malicious destruction of property is a serious offense in Michigan that can have significant consequences on your life. If you are facing charges related to this crime, it is crucial to understand the gravity of the situation and seek professional legal assistance immediately.
At Duplessis Law, we are committed to providing strong defense strategies tailored to your unique circumstances. Our experienced team will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and help secure a favorable outcome. Don’t face these charges alone. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step towards protecting your future.
What is Malicious Destruction of Property?
Malicious destruction of property, also known as MDOP, refers to intentionally damaging or destroying someone else’s property without lawful justification. It encompasses various acts, such as vandalism, graffiti, arson, or intentionally damaging personal or public property. In Michigan, the law takes this offense seriously to ensure the preservation of public and private property rights.
Michigan MDOP can be charged either as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the extent of property damage.
Michigan Misdemeanor MDOP
Misdemeanor MDOP involves property damage valued at less than a specified amount, typically around $1,000. If convicted of this offense and have no prior convictions, you may face misdemeanor charges, which can result in penalties including fines, restitution to the victim, probation, and even potential jail time.
If the property’s value falls within the range of $200 to $1,000 or is below $200 but you have a previous conviction, a misdemeanor charge can result in a maximum jail sentence of one year and fines up to $2,000, or three times the value of the damage, whichever is higher.
In cases involving the destruction of property valued at less than $200, without prior convictions, you could face a maximum jail term of 93 days and fines up to $500, or three times the amount of the damage, whichever is greater.
Michigan Felony MDOP
Felony MDOP charges are applicable when the property damage exceeds a certain monetary threshold, usually above $1,000. Felony convictions carry more severe consequences, including significant fines, restitution, probation, and longer prison sentences. Additionally, having a felony on your criminal record can significantly impact your personal and professional life.
If the damage exceeds $20,000 or you have two or more prior convictions for malicious destruction, you may face felony charges for MDOP. This can lead to a maximum prison term of 10 years and fines of up to $15,000, or three times the value of the damage, whichever is higher.
In cases involving damage ranging from $1,000 to $20,000, and with a previous conviction, you could be charged with a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000, or three times the value of the property damage, whichever is greater.
It is important to note that any malicious destruction of police or fire department property, school buses, bridges, or water structures such as dams or reservoirs, is considered a felony offense, regardless of the amount of damage or loss incurred.
What Prosecution Must Prove for a Guilty Verdict
To secure a guilty verdict for malicious destruction of property, the prosecution must establish several key elements. They must prove that:
- You intentionally damaged or destroyed the property.
- The property belonged to someone else.
- You did not have legal justification or permission to damage or destroy the property.
- The property damage resulted in economic loss or impairment of its function or value.
Ashlee Duplessis Can Defend You
Facing charges for malicious destruction of property can be a distressing experience, especially for one-time or juvenile offenders who may not fully comprehend the consequences of their actions. At Duplessis Law, we understand the complex emotions and challenges you may be facing. Our compassionate legal team is here to provide guidance, support, and a strong defense strategy to help navigate through this difficult time.
We believe in second chances and helping our clients rebuild their lives. We are committed to exploring every available legal avenue to minimize the impact of these charges. Don’t let one mistake define your future. Contact Duplessis Law today and let us be your trusted ally. Together, we will fight to protect your rights, advocate for a fair resolution, and help you move forward with hope and dignity.
Take the first step in your defense by contacting Duplessis Law for a confidential consultation. Don’t wait – the earlier we get involved, the better equipped we will be to protect your rights and build a strong defense. We are here to stand by your side, navigate the legal complexities, and fight for the best possible outcome for you.