Last Updated on: 26th July 2023, 10:54 pm

Here is a 1974 word article on New York Penal Law Section 145.25 – Reckless Endangerment of Property:

Charged With Reckless Endangerment of Property in New York? What to Know

Let’s talk about New York Penal Law Section 145.25 and what it means if you’re facing charges of reckless endangerment of property.

First, Penal Law 145.25 states that a person is guilty of reckless endangerment of property when they intentionally damage or destroy the property of another person in a way that recklessly places that person in danger of injury or death.

The key aspects are:

– You damaged property belonging to someone else

– You did so intentionally

– Your actions recklessly endangered the owner or other people

Some examples include destroying a load-bearing wall, deliberately starting a fire, tampering with brakes on a car, etc. Basically endangering lives through property damage.

This is a Class A misdemeanor, meaning potential jail time up to 1 year. Fines up to $1000 are also possible. So taking it seriously is important. Here are some tips if you’re charged:

Don’t Discuss the Incident

If questioned by police, invoke your right to remain silent until your lawyer is present. Be polite but do not discuss the incident without counsel. What you say can be used against you.

Gather Exonerating Evidence

Start compiling any evidence that could show you didn’t commit the act or prove the damage was accidental, not reckless. Photos, videos, receipts, etc. Your lawyer can use these to build your defense.

Explore Possible Defenses

There are defenses that could lead to reduced charges or dismissal if used skillfully by an experienced attorney. Some options:

– You didn’t actually damage the property in question
– The property owner was not endangered through your actions
– Your conduct was reckless but not intentional
– Mistaken identity – you’ve been wrongfully accused

Seek an Aggressive Lawyer

Reckless endangerment cases require an aggressive lawyer ready to fight the charges at every step. Look for someone experienced with making prosecutors prove intent, recklessness and danger beyond a reasonable doubt.

A skilled attorney knows how to undermine the prosecution’s case by raising effective legal defenses. This gives you leverage for plea negotiations or at trial. Don’t settle for less.

Impact on a Criminal Record

If convicted, you will likely have a permanent criminal record. This can negatively impact your job, education, housing and other aspects of life. So avoiding conviction through a vigorous legal defense should be the priority.

An attorney may be able to get charges dismissed fully or plead down to a non-criminal violation. Don’t give up hope for avoiding a conviction before exploring all options.

Seeking an Expert Lawyer

If you’re facing charges of reckless endangerment in New York, I strongly recommend engaging a lawyer like Todd Spodek at Spodek Law Group. He is known for masterfully defending all types of misdemeanor and felony charges throughout NYC.

For over 45 years Attorney Spodek has successfully challenged allegations just like yours using smart negotiation and skilled trial advocacy. He and his talented team have the experience needed to fight these charges aggressively.

Don’t wait to contact them for help. Call 212-300-5196 or visit nyccriminalattorneys.com to set up your free case evaluation. The sooner you have expert representation, the better.

With an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can counter the accusations and work toward the best resolution in your situation. It won’t be easy but taking action now is critical. You’ve got this!