As computers have become more prevalent in our society, these expensive devices become a major asset to protect for owners. However, computers can be damaged in many ways and for many different reasons. Because they are so important and expensive, computers have protection under state law. Because of this law, destruction of computers or computer equipment constitutes a crime. This crime can result in prosecution by the state. To understand destruction of computer equipment law and penalties, read on.

Degrees of Destruction of Computer Equipment

There are five different degrees for the crime of destruction of computer equipment. The different degrees deal with the amount of money that the damaged property cost.

• If the damaged property exceeded $10,000, you face a charge of destruction of computer equipment in the first degree.
• If the damaged property exceeded $5,000, you face a charge of destruction of computer equipment in the second degree.
• Damaged property exceeding $1,000, results in a charge of destruction of computer equipment in the third degree.
• If the damaged property exceeded $500, you face a charge of destruction of computer equipment in the fourth degree.
• If the damaged property is less than $500, you face a charge of destruction of computer equipment in the fifth degree.

In order to prove destruction of computer equipment, the state must prove that the defendant recklessly or intentionally tampered with equipment used in a computer system without authorization. This might happen to a computer in a store, or it might happen to a computer that is someone else’s private property.

Defending Yourself

If you are accused of destruction of computer equipment, there are a few ways that you can defend yourself. First, it is important which degree of destruction you are accused of. You might be able to reduce the charges if you did not do that much damage to the computer equipment. In addition, you might be able to show evidence that you did not purposefully cause damage to the computer. If the destruction was an accident or you were not really the one who caused the damage, you could have a solid defense.

If you have a destruction of computer equipment charge, you need to find a way to defend yourself. The best way to defend yourself is by contacting a criminal defense attorney such as myself. I can review your situation with you and help you establish the best defense.