malicious mischief

American  

Also criminal mischief

noun

1. willful destruction of personal property motivated by ill will or resentment toward its owner or possessor.

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Etymology

Origin of malicious mischief

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

malicious mischief

Resources that should be devoted to ensuring the smooth execution of November’s balloting are instead being diverted to respond to malicious mischief.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2022

The police have also accused Sherman of malicious mischief because, they said, he damaged the door of the home.

From New York Times ● Jul. 14, 2021

Whoever knocked over the sign could face a malicious mischief charge, Travis said.

From Seattle Times ● May 10, 2016

Both men also face charges of malicious mischief.

From Washington Times ● Jul. 13, 2015

A white man is occasionally arraigned for "disposing of mortgaged property," or for malicious mischief, including the destruction of property.

From The New South A Chronicle of Social and Industrial Evolution by Thompson, Holland