easyWashington2020criminal
State v. Anonymous Defendant (Vandalism)
Graffiti on public building. Defendant admits to creating art but claims it was authorized. Property owner denies giving permission.
Charges
- •Malicious Mischief in the Second Degree (RCW 9A.48.080)
Case Facts
Review the established facts of this case
- 1Large mural painted on side of municipal building on August 5, 2020
- 2Mural covered approximately 400 square feet
- 3Defendant is known local street artist
- 4Defendant claims they received verbal permission from city employee
- 5City employee denies giving permission
- 6No written authorization exists
- 7Mural was political in nature, critical of local government
- 8Removal cost estimated at $8,000
- 9Some community members praised mural as art
- 10City council had previously rejected defendant's proposal for public art
- 11Defendant's signature visible on mural
- 12Security footage shows defendant painting mural over 6-hour period
- 13Defendant made no attempt to hide identity
Your Verdict
Based on the evidence and applicable law, what is your verdict?