Need to get somewhere around Seattle and want to use a rideshare vehicle? You should probably just download an app and use it to hail a ride rather than what a local man did recently.

On Tuesday, August 27, 2019, a rideshare driver had stopped along the 1900th block of Third Avenue to pick up a rider. The passenger got into the back seat when suddenly, a man dove headfirst through a rear window into the car. Both the rideshare driver and the passenger jumped out of the car, which was still running when the suspect exited the car and then moved into the driver's seat. The rideshare driver grabbed the man's arm, and a passerby reached in from the passenger's side and grabbed his other arm to keep him from putting the car into gear. They held onto him until the police arrived to arrest the suspect. The suspect had to be taken to a hospital to be treated for the cuts he sustained when he dove through the window. He has been charged since with attempted robbery and malicious mischief.

Malicious Mischief Laws in Washington

While “malicious mischief” sounds like a naughty prank that went too far, it is actually a serious property crime and punishments are determined by the amount of damage caused. Malicious mischief can include vandalism, graffiti, and destroying someone else's property willfully.

Our rideshare diver will probably be charged with third-degree malicious mischief, which according to Washington RCW 9A.48.090 is when a person

(a) Knowingly and maliciously causes physical damage to the property of another, under circumstances not amounting to malicious mischief in the first or second degree; or

(b) Writes, paints, or draws any inscription, figure, or mark of any type on any public or private building or other structure or any real or personal property owned by any other person unless the person has obtained the express permission of the owner or operator of the property, under circumstances not amounting to malicious mischief in the first or second degree.

(2) Malicious mischief in the third degree is a gross misdemeanor.

The amount of damage for a third-degree malicious mischief charge is $750 or less and punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.

Defense Attorney Steve Karimi

Steve Karimi is a former prosecutor for King County who uses his insight into prosecution strategies to protect his clients' rights in criminal court. If you or a loved one have been charged with any crime, even with a seemingly insignificant charge of malicious mischief, the Law Offices of Steve Karimi can provide the representation you deserve. Call them at 206-621-8777 or contact them online today for a free consultation of your unique case.