A vandalism sentence is determined by the type of vandalism and how much damage it does. Vandalism is destruction and damage of property. This can involve graffiti, turned over tombstones in a cemetery, broken windows and slashed tires. While most vandalism charges are a misdemeanor, in some cases the charges can be felonies. Those cases can include: When the vandalism is graffiti that includes racial slurs that make the offense a hate crime; When the damage exceeds a certain dollar amount. In most states, this amount is $400. Misdemeanors do not require jail time but are punishable by fines, restitution, probation and community service. Felony vandalism can result in jail or prison time, depending on the previous criminal record of the offender, plus fines and restitution. Vandalism is often committed by juveniles. In some states, their parents are held liable for paying for the damages caused by their vandalism.