When does criminal damage to property elevate from a misdemeanor to a felony?

In the context of criminal damage to property laws in Illinois, the value of the damage is a key factor in determining the severity of the charge. Specifically, when the amount of damage caused exceeds $500, it elevates the offense from a misdemeanor to a felony. This threshold is aligned with Illinois law, which categorizes offenses based on the financial impact of the damage caused.

When the damage surpasses this $500 limit, the legal ramifications are more severe, reflecting the greater harm inflicted upon property owners and the community. This elevation in charge serves to underscore the seriousness with which the legal system treats property damage that is above this monetary threshold.

In contrast, lesser amounts mentioned in the other choices do not reach the felony status, as they fall within misdemeanor thresholds, which typically involve lower degrees of damage. Understanding these distinctions in property damage valuation is crucial for those involved in the field of security and law enforcement.