The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has announced that two 17-year-old boys have admitted to a charge of felony vandalism with a hate crime allegation for anti-Semitic graffiti at Calabasas High School. The teens were 16 at the time of the incident and their names are not being released to the public due to their age. According to The Sacramento Bee, specific students and teachers at the high school were targeted by swastikas, anti-Semitic and anti-black slurs and profanities spray-painted on doors, walls, sidewalks, and a stop sign. The teens reportedly informed investigators that they didn't intend to single-out any particular racial or religious groups. The teens argued that they felt like they had been mistreated and wanted to upset a few teachers and fellow students.
By order of the Sylmar Juvenile Court, the teens will be required to finish 100 hours of community service, pay $6,000 in fines, attend counseling, and attend a program at the Museum of Tolerance. In addition, the teens will remain under court and Probation Department supervision for one year. A third teen who faces charges will return to court in November for trial setting.
Under California Penal Code Section 594, an individual may be charged with vandalism if they are accused of defacing real or personal property with graffiti or other inscribed material. A person can also face charges for damaging or destroying real or personal property that belongs o another person or entity. Under California Penal Code Section PC 422.6, it is illegal to use force, threats or destruction of property to create any interference with another person's exercise of civil rights.
The consequences of vandalism and hate crimes can be severe, resulting in imprisonment, steep fines, probation, and other penalties. Whether you or someone you care about is facing vandalism charges, you may want to speak with a lawyer who can inform you of your legal rights and options for defense. Southern California vandalism defense attorney Daniel Kann is committed to defending his clients' rights. With years of experience handling a wide range of criminal defense cases, Mr. Kann may be able to help you get the charges held against you reduced or eliminated. Call 888-744-7730 today to learn more about your legal rights.
Source: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/09/14/3911252/2-teens-admit-to-anti-semitic.html
