Malicious Destruction of Property Charge in Stoughton? 

Don’t Let a Mistake Become a Criminal Record.

Whether it started as a personal dispute, a school incident, or a split-second decision during an argument, being charged with malicious destruction of property in Stoughton can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time dealing with the legal system.

At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we help clients in Stoughton District Court and across Norfolk County fight back against property damage charges. From teenagers to working adults, we’ve helped countless people avoid convictions, clean up their records, and move on with their lives.

What Is Malicious Destruction of Property in Massachusetts?

The law under M.G.L. c. 266 § 127 makes it a crime to:

• Intentionally and maliciously
• Damage or destroy
• Someone else’s property

This includes:

• Scratching or breaking someone’s car
• Punching a wall in a shared apartment
• Damaging a phone during an argument
• Breaking something at school or in public
• Throwing something that causes damage

We often see these charges in Stoughton related to:

• High school or college disputes
• Neighborhood or family arguments
• Vandalism accusations
• Damage during a breakup or domestic situation

Even if no one was hurt, the case can still lead to jail time, fines, or a permanent criminal record.

Felony or Misdemeanor? It Depends on the Damage

The key factor is the value of the damage:

If the damage is $1,200 or more:

• It’s a felony
• Up to 2.5 years in jail
• Fines up to $3,000 or triple the damage
• Restitution to the alleged victim

If the damage is under $1,200:

• It’s a misdemeanor
• Still up to 2.5 years in jail
• Fines up to $1,500 or triple the damage
• Probation or court-imposed conditions

What Happens in Stoughton District Court

Stoughton District Court handles a wide range of cases—many involving everyday people who made a mistake, lost their temper, or got caught up in something they didn’t expect. The court often works with defense attorneys to resolve these cases without long-term damage to the defendant’s future—but only if the case is handled strategically.

We’ve helped clients avoid conviction through:

• Restitution agreements
• Diversion programs
• CWOFs (continuances without a finding)
• Dismissals after successful probation

FAQs – Malicious Destruction in Stoughton

Can I be charged even if I didn’t “mean” to cause damage?
Possibly. But proving “malicious intent” is required. If it was accidental or reckless—not intentional—we can often fight to get the case dismissed or reduced.

What if I already offered to pay for the damage?
That’s a strong first step. We can formalize restitution in court as part of a legal resolution—ideally one that avoids a conviction.

Will this affect my job or school?
Yes, if you’re convicted. Many employers and schools run CORI checks. Our goal is to resolve your case in a way that keeps your record clean and your future protected.

Let’s Keep This From Following You

A criminal charge doesn’t have to turn into a criminal record. Whether you made a mistake or are being unfairly blamed, we’ll work to get you through this with the best possible result.

Call DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C. today for a free consultation Or fill out our contact form and we’ll follow up quickly

We handle property damage cases every day—and we know how to fight them in Stoughton District Court.

Also serving Avon, Canton, Sharon, and communities across Norfolk County.