Wilful Damage

Example:

Steve’s angry because his girlfriend cheated on him with his best mate, Kieran. He slits the tyres on Kieran’s car one night. As he is doing it, the Police arrive.

Offence:
Wilful damage – section 11 of the Summary Offences Act 1981
It is an offence to intentionally damage any property or set on fire any tree.

Penalty:
There is a maximum penalty of 3 months imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $2000.

Likely sentence:
Steve is likely to get a fine of $200 - $300 and reparation for the cost of the tyres. If he’s never been in trouble and has already paid for the tyres, the Judge may decide to convict and discharge him or require him to come up for sentence if called upon.