malicious mischief

American  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of malicious mischief

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

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

He served three months in jail for malicious mischief, but then a Seattle municipal judge did the opposite of coddling him.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 18, 2020

Both men also face charges of malicious mischief.

From Washington Times • Jul. 13, 2015

That evening, Pilling had Tobit McStenger arrested for malicious mischief.

From Tales from Bohemia by Stephens, Robert Neilson