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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Feb 2016
    Posts
    3

    Default Vehicle Tampering Charges

    My question involves criminal law for the state of: California.
    I was cited for vehicle tampering: VC 10852.
    My question is whether or not tampering has a specific definition or is arbitrary as far as the law is concerned. I tapped a police vehicle (idiotic I know) as it passed by one night after a party. The police claim to have caught the incident on video. I didn't cause any damage to the vehicle, so I feel like the charge is rather harsh. I'd be happy to hear what advice or insight anyone might have!

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Location
    California
    Posts
    20,594

    Default Re: Vehicle Tampering

    VC 10852 ...

    No person shall either individually or in association with one or more other persons, willfully injure or tamper with any vehicle or the contents thereof or break or remove any part of a vehicle without the consent of the owner.

    The state will have to prove the WILLFUL element of the offense, and that may be difficult depending on the facts. They would also have to show damage or tampering.

    When you say "tapped" what do you mean? Hit it with your vehicle? Punched it? What?

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Feb 2016
    Posts
    3

    Default Re: Vehicle Tampering

    Tapped as in the way you would pat someone's back for a job well done. I tapped one of the tail lights twice, and there was definitely no damage to the vehicle. I had no intention of damaging or defacing the vehicle, I just get really touchy when I drink.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Location
    California
    Posts
    20,594

    Default Re: Vehicle Tampering

    Sounds like it may have been an attitude arrest or cite and not one that stands much of a chance of being filed. If you go to court and are arraigned, be sure to ask for an attorney if you cannot afford one. But, absent proof of damage, the DA is not likely to file this.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Mar 2013
    Posts
    18,340

    Default Re: Vehicle Tampering

    Quote Quoting Pickled
    View Post
    I just get really touchy when I drink.
    Then stop drinking. Makes you touchy...and stupid.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Feb 2016
    Posts
    3

    Default Re: Vehicle Tampering Charges

    Alright, I'll be sure to do that! Thank you for your input!

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