Malicious Injury to Personal Property—often abbreviated as MIPP—is a criminal offense in South Carolina that involves intentionally damaging someone else’s property. Whether it’s a broken cell phone or a keyed car, these cases are taken seriously by police and prosecutors, and they can carry severe legal consequences if not properly defended.
Understanding the Law: SC Code § 16-11-510
Under South Carolina Code Section 16-11-510, it is unlawful to willfully and maliciously destroy or damage the personal property of another. The law distinguishes between misdemeanor and felony charges based on the value of the property damaged:
Misdemeanor MIPP: If the value of the damage is $2,000 or less, the case is prosecuted in magistrate or municipal court.
Felony MIPP: If the value of the damage exceeds $2,000, the charge becomes a felony, handled in General Sessions court. A conviction on a felony MIPP charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in the South Carolina Department of Corrections.
Common Examples of MIPP
While the specifics of each case vary, MIPP is frequently charged in everyday conflict situations. Examples include:
Throwing someone’s cell phone during an argument, causing it to break.
Keying a vehicle in a parking lot after a dispute.
Breaking furniture or electronics during a domestic incident.
Damaging a neighbor’s property over a boundary disagreement
In many situations, MIPP is charged alongside other offenses, such as:
Assault
Theft or Burglary
These additional charges can further complicate your case and increase the potential penalties.
Defending Against Malicious Injury Charges
A critical element of any malicious injury charge is the intentional nature of the damage. In other words, the prosecution must prove that the property was damaged on purpose. If the damage was the result of an accident, that fact alone can form the basis of a strong defense.
Another common defense involves insufficient evidence—we frequently see cases where someone is charged based on speculation or assumption, rather than clear proof they were responsible for the damage.
No matter the circumstances, there are legal options available. These may include:
Challenging false or exaggerated accusations
Arguing for a reduction in charges
Negotiating sentencing alternatives
Pursuing Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for eligible individuals, especially those without significant criminal records
PTI can allow for the eventual dismissal of the charge and the opportunity to keep a clean record.
Facing a Malicious Injury Charge? We Can Help.
If you or a loved one has been charged with Malicious Injury to Personal Property (MIPP) in South Carolina, don’t wait to protect your rights. The Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, offers free consultations to discuss your case, your options, and how we can build a strong defense on your behalf.
Call us today at (803) 359-3301 to schedule your free case review. We represent clients in Lexington, Columbia, and throughout South Carolina.