The Westminster Police Department has become aware of multiple videos on social media showing tagging, vandalism, and trespassing amongst other criminal activity occurring inside the Westminster mall.
The Westminster Police Department has partnered with property owners and onsite security to help combat this issue. Over the past 72 hours the Westminster Police Department has handled:
- 57 calls for service
- 20 reports created
- 30 arrests made
The Westminster mall is closed and no persons are allowed inside.
The Westminster Police Department will be conducting full enforcement for any criminal activity committed at the mall.
In California, criminal activities like tagging, vandalism, and trespassing—recently reported at the Westminster Mall—carry penalties that vary based on the extent of property damage and the nature of the entry.
Vandalism and Tagging (Penal Code 594)
Penalties for vandalism (including tagging/graffiti) are primarily determined by the dollar amount of damage caused:
- Damage Under $400 (Misdemeanor):
- Up to one year in county jail.
- Fines up to $1,000 (increases up to $5,000 for those with prior vandalism convictions).
- Damage of $400 or More (“Wobbler”):
- Can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Felony penalties: Up to three years in state prison and fines up to $10,000.
- If damage exceeds $10,000, fines can reach $50,000.
Trespassing (Penal Code 602)
Trespassing is typically prosecuted as a misdemeanor, but severity can increase under specific circumstances:
- Standard Misdemeanor Trespass:
- Up to six months in county jail.
- A fine of up to $1,000.
- Aggravated Trespass (Penal Code 601):
- Occurs if a person makes a credible threat and then enters the victim’s workplace or residence to carry it out.
- Can be a felony, punishable by 16 months to three years in jail/prison and a $10,000 fine.
Additional Consequences
- Restitution: Convicted individuals are often ordered to pay for the repair or replacement of damaged property.
- Community Service: Courts frequently mandate community service, such as personally cleaning up graffiti.
- Driver’s License Suspension: For individuals 13 or older, a vandalism conviction can result in a suspension of driving privileges for up to two years (or a 1–3 year delay for those not yet eligible to drive).
- Parental Liability: If the offender is a minor, parents may be held financially liable for fines and restitution.