During the current COVID-19 crisis, people worldwide are particularly conscious about spreading germs. Most people are practicing social distancing, and when they do need to leave their homes for a trip to the store or doctor, they wear a mask in hopes of preventing the spread of the deadly disease. The concern over spread of the coronavirus made it especially shocking when a California woman in her 50s began licking items at the grocery store.

According to a Newsweek report, the woman, Jennifer Walker, licked a cart full of items at Safeway. Officers arrived at the scene and investigated--it appears the woman did not have the means to pay for the items and licked each item before putting them in her cart. The items were thus unsellable because of concerns over COVID-19 contamination. She was arrested on a “felony charge of ‘vandalism of more than $400'.”

Vandalism Charges

In California, vandalism, which means intentionally damaging, destroying, or defacing the property of another person, is a crime that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Whether it is a misdemeanor or felony depends on the value of the property damage. If the damage exceeds $400, it can be charged as a felony with consequences that include years of jail time and fines up to $50,000 depending on the value of the damage.

Get Help Facing Your Los Angeles Criminal Charges

During this uncertain time, you certainly do not want to have to worry about facing criminal charges. That is why it is important to avoid any actions that may be interpreted as an attempt to spread germs, even if you are only joking. Things can escalate quickly and you may find yourself with a criminal charge.

If you need assistance facing your criminal charges, contact the skilled Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at the Kann California Law Group. It is always worth it to defend your charges as these charges can have a significant negative impact on your life. Call us today for a free case consultation at 888-744-7730 or use or online contact form. We can talk about your situation and the steps we can take to provide a defense. Contact us today!