The legal definition of vandalism in New York State is Criminal Mischief. Intentionally damaging property of another person illegal and a misdemeanor. A person charged with Criminal Mischief will find themselves in Family Court or in Criminal Court. Teens sometimes do things that may seem like a practical joke but may, in reality, be criminal. Some acts like throwing snowballs and breaking a window, pulling up or breaking lawn decorations or scratching a car with a key are examples of criminal mischief. Teens should think before doing something that does not seem right or may effect others in a negative way.