Felony or Misdemeanor?

[eyesontheworld]

I want to be a LEO, but would like to know if my chances are ruined.

I was convicted of Criminal Mischief 4th Degree in New Jersey. The actual law says damages more than $500 but less than $2000. Is this a felony or misdemeanor?

Other than my dumb mistake of keying my girlfriend's father's car, I have no prior history with police. No drug use or anything else that is deemed bad. The incident happened two years ago, but I pleaded guilty to the crime this year.

Which will matter most? The incident date or conviction date?

I don't know if this matters, but I was sentenced to pay mandatory fines (police fund, and some other stuff) and difference between what the insurance company paid and the father paid (if he responds to court papers). My probation begins on the date of the sentencing but will terminate immediately once I pay the fines. I literally can pay the same day I'm sentenced and probation will end.

I would like to tell anyone that's reading this... don't let anger cause you to do stupid stuff. A couple hours after the incident, I asked myself "why?".

[TPDHellhound]

To be honest, it doesn't look good. But if you want to check to see if if is M or F, check your paperwork from the plea agreement.

[mcsap]

I am thinking you had a lawyer involved ?? They will know. Or you could call any NJ police dpet and using the bare facts you presented here, they should be able to tell you the grading of the offense based on the value.

[eyesontheworld]

I am thinking you had a lawyer involved ?? They will know. Or you could call any NJ police dpet and using the bare facts you presented here, they should be able to tell you the grading of the offense based on the value.

Yes, I had a lawyer. I was just being lazy and hoped for a quick answer here.

[Nuklhed]

It probably will not matter if it is a felony or a misdemeanor. The background investigator is going to look at your character and how your reacted. Doesnt look so good, but who knows. Cant hurt to find out and see.

[Joeyd6]

Sent you a PM!!

[eyesontheworld]

thanks for the PM guys. i'm not going to be discouraged. i will just apply to the departments that don't outrightly say felony or misdeameanors, and during my background invest., i will explain the situation.

never know...