What is one of the primary characteristics of criminal mischief?

The primary characteristic of criminal mischief is that it involves property damage. This offense typically pertains to actions that intentionally or recklessly cause damage to another person's property. The essence of criminal mischief is not the physical injury to individuals but rather the impact on tangible items, such as vandalism or destruction of property. This can include acts like breaking windows, damaging vehicles, or defacing structures, all of which directly relate to harm done to property, rather than personal harm or theft. Understanding this characteristic helps differentiate criminal mischief from other offenses that might involve personal injury or theft, reinforcing the focus on property as the primary concern in such cases.