Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What charge could Nora and her friends potentially face for intentionally opening a fire hydrant?

1. Public Mischief

2. Criminal Damage to Property

3. Disturbing the Peace

4. Negligent Behavior

The correct answer is: Criminal Damage to Property

Intentionally opening a fire hydrant can be classified as criminal damage to property because it involves the unlawful alteration, destruction, or damage of property that belongs to a public entity or, in some cases, private individuals. Fire hydrants are critical infrastructure used by fire departments to ensure public safety during emergencies. When someone opens a fire hydrant without authorization, it can lead to water loss, property damage, flooding, or disruption of essential services, and could interfere with the function of the hydrant during a fire, putting lives and property at risk. While public mischief generally pertains to activities that cause public annoyance or chaos, it may not encompass the specific damage caused by tampering with infrastructure. Disturbing the peace is focused on actions that disrupt public order rather than directly causing damage to property. Negligent behavior involves a failure to exercise reasonable care, which is not as applicable in this case where the act of opening the hydrant was intentional. Thus, criminal damage to property is the most appropriate charge, as it directly relates to the intentional act and its consequences.