Mischief to Property (Offence): Difference between revisions

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[[fr:Méfait (infraction)]]
{{Currency2|January|2020}}
{{LevelZero}}{{HeaderOffences}}
{{LevelZero}}{{HeaderOffences}}
 
{{OffenceBox  
{{OffenceBox |OffenceTitle=Mischief |OffencePage=Mischief  |Section=430|Act={{OBCCC}} |CrownElection= varies<!--{{OBIndictableElection}} {{OBHybridElection}} {{OBSummaryElection}} {{OBHybridIndictableElection}} {{OBHybridSummaryElection}}--> |Jurisdiction= varies<!--{{OBJurisdictionAll}} {{OBJurisdictionExclusive}} {{OBJurisdictionAbsolute}} --> |Bail= {{OBBailVar}} |SummaryDisp= {{OBDispAll}} |SummaryMin= {{OBMinNone}} |SummaryMax= {{OBSConviction}} |IndictableDisp= {{OBDisp14orLifeVar}} |IndictableMin= {{OBMinNone}} |IndictableMax= {{OBTime|2 years}} (other)<br> {{OBTime|10 years}} (test., over $5k, data)<br> {{OBMaxLife}} (endanger life)}}
|OffenceTitle=Mischief  
|OffencePage=Mischief   
|Section=430|Act={{OBCCC}}  
|CrownElection= varies<!--{{OBIndictableElection}} {{OBHybridElection}} {{OBSummaryElection}} {{OBHybridIndictableElection}} {{OBHybridSummaryElection}}-->  
|Jurisdiction= varies<!--{{OBJurisdictionAll}} {{OBJurisdictionExclusive}} {{OBJurisdictionAbsolute}} -->  
|Bail= {{OBBailVar}}  
|SummaryDisp= {{OBDispAll}}  
|SummaryMin= {{OBMinNone}}
|SummaryMax= {{OBSConviction}}
|IndictableDisp= {{OBDisp14orLifeVar}}  
|IndictableMin= {{OBMinNone}}  
|IndictableMax= {{OBTime|2 years}} (other)<br> {{OBTime|10 years}} (test., over $5k, data)<br> {{OBMaxLife}} (endanger life)}}


==Overview==
==Overview==
{{seealso|Mischief to Data (Offence)|Mischief to Cultural Property (Offence)}}
{{OverviewXI|mischief}}
{{OverviewXI|mischief}}


Line 11: Line 25:


; Pleadings
; Pleadings
{{PleadingsHeader}}
{{PleadingsHeader-N}}
{{PleadingsHybridList|s. 430(3) [mischief of value of $5,000 or more],<br>s. 430(4.1) [religious property],<br>s. 430(4.11) [war memorials],<br>s. 430(4.2) [cultural property], or<br>s. 430(1.1)/(5) [data]| Yes | {{YesIfCrown}} }}
{{PleadingsHybridList-N|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}} | {{Yes}} | {{Yes-IfCrown}} | {{No-Under14}} }}
{{PleadingsAbsoluteList|s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000] }}
{{PleadingsAbsoluteList-N|s. 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}} | {{Yes}} |  {{No}} | {{No-Absolute}} }}
{{PleadingsIndictableList|s. 430(2) [causing danger to life] | {{NA}} | Yes }}
{{PleadingsHybridList-N|s. 430(5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}} | {{Yes}} | {{Yes-IfCrown}} | {{No-Under14}} }}
{{PleadingsIndictableList-N|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} | {{No}} | {{Yes}} | {{Yes}} }}
{{PleadingsEnd}}
{{PleadingsEnd}}


{{PleadingsHybridElection|s. 430(3) [mischief of value of $5,000 or more], 430(4.1) [religious property], 430(4.11) [war memorials], 430(4.2) [cultural property], or 430(1.1)/(5) [data]}}
{{PleadingsHybridElection|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}} }}


{{PleadingsAbsolute|s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000]}}
{{PleadingsAbsolute|s. 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}} }}


{{PleadingsIndictElection|s. 430(2) [causing danger to life]}}
{{PleadingsIndictElection|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} }}


; Release
; Release
{{ReleaseHeader}}
{{ReleaseHeader}}
|s. 430(3), (4), (4.1), (4.11), (4.2), or (5) || {{ReleaseProfileAll}}  
|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}} <br>s. 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}} or<br>s. 430(5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}}|| {{ReleaseProfile-Hybrid}}  
|-
|-
|s. 430(2) || {{ReleaseProfileOnlyBail}}  
|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} || {{ReleaseProfile-Indictable}}  
|-
|-
{{ReleaseEnd}}
{{ReleaseEnd}}


{{ReleaseAllOptions|s. 430(3), (4), (4.1), (4.11), (4.2), or (5)}}
{{ReleaseOptions-Hybrid|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}} or (4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}}}}


{{ReleaseOnlyBail|s. 430(2)}}
{{ReleaseOptions-Indictable|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} }}


:''Fingeprints and Photos''
:''Fingerprints and Photos''
{{IDCriminalAct|s. 430}}
{{IDCriminalAct|s. 430 {{DescrSec|430}}}}


; Publication Bans
; Publication Bans
Line 44: Line 59:
{{DesignationHeader}}
{{DesignationHeader}}
|-
|-
|s. 430 || {{XMark}} <!--wire--> || {{XMark}} <!--DO-->||{{XMark}} <!--SPIO--> || {{XMark}} <!--consent-->
|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} || {{XMark}} <!--wire--> || {{XMark}} <!--DO-->||{{XMark}} <!--SPIO--> || {{XMark}} <!--consent--> || {{OKMark}} <!--IPRA-->
|-
|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}} || {{XMark}} <!--wire--> || {{XMark}} <!--DO-->||{{XMark}} <!--SPIO--> || {{XMark}} <!--consent--> ||  {{OKMark-Indict}}<!--IPRA-->
|-
|s. 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}}<br>s. 430(5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}} || {{XMark}} <!--wire--> || {{XMark}} <!--DO-->||{{XMark}} <!--SPIO--> || {{XMark}} <!--consent--> || {{XMark}} <!--IPRA-->
 
{{DesignationEnd}}
{{DesignationEnd}}


{{SeeBelowForAncillary}}
{{SeeBelowForAncillary}}
{{reflist|2}}


==Offence Wording==
==Offence Wording==


===Generally===
===Generally===
{{quotation|
{{quotation2|
; Mischief
; Mischief
430. (1) Every one commits mischief who wilfully
430 (1) Every one commits mischief who wilfully
:(a) destroys or damages property;
:(a) destroys or damages property;
:(b) renders property dangerous, useless, inoperative or ineffective;
:(b) renders property dangerous, useless, inoperative or ineffective;
Line 60: Line 82:
:(d) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property.
:(d) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property.


...<br>
{{Removed|(1.1), (2), (3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)}}
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. C-46}}, s. 430;  
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.)}}, s. 57;  
{{LegHistory90s|1994, c. 44}}, s. 28;  
{{LegHistory00s|2001, c. 41}}, s. 12;  
{{LegHistory00s|2005, c. 40}}, s. 3;  
{{LegHistory10s|2014, c. 9}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2017, c. 27}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2019, c. 25}}, s. 162.
|{{CCCSec2|430}}
|{{NoteUp|430|1}}
}}
}}


===Endangering Life===
===Endangering Life (430(2))===
{{quotation|
{{quotation2|
430.<br>...<br>
430<br>
{{Removed|(1) and (1.1)}}
; Punishment
; Punishment
(2) Every one who commits mischief that causes actual danger to life is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for life.<br>
(2) Every one who commits mischief that causes actual danger to life is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for life.
...<br>
 
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
{{Removed|(3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)}}
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. C-46}}, s. 430;  
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.)}}, s. 57;  
{{LegHistory90s|1994, c. 44}}, s. 28;  
{{LegHistory00s|2001, c. 41}}, s. 12;  
{{LegHistory00s|2005, c. 40}}, s. 3;  
{{LegHistory10s|2014, c. 9}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2017, c. 27}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2019, c. 25}}, s. 162.
|{{CCCSec2|430}}
|{{NoteUp|430|2}}
}}
}}


===Testamentary Instruments $5,000 and Above===
===Testamentary Instruments $5,000 and Above (430(3))===
{{quotation|
{{quotation2|
430.<br>...<br>
430<br>
{{Removed|(1), (1.1) and (2)}}
; Punishment
; Punishment
(3) Every one who commits mischief in relation to property that is a testamentary instrument or the value of which exceeds five thousand dollars
(3) Every one who commits mischief in relation to property that is a testamentary instrument or the value of which exceeds five thousand dollars
Line 83: Line 124:
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.


...<br>
{{Removed|(4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)}}
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. C-46}}, s. 430;  
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.)}}, s. 57;  
{{LegHistory90s|1994, c. 44}}, s. 28;  
{{LegHistory00s|2001, c. 41}}, s. 12;  
{{LegHistory00s|2005, c. 40}}, s. 3;  
{{LegHistory10s|2014, c. 9}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2017, c. 27}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2019, c. 25}}, s. 162.
|{{CCCSec2|430}}
|{{NoteUp|430|3}}
}}
}}


===Under $5,000===
===Under $5,000 (430(4))===
{{quotation|
{{quotation2|
430.<br>...<br>
430<br>
{{Removed|(1), (1.1), (2) and (3)}}
; Idem
; Idem
(4) Every one who commits mischief in relation to property, other than property described in subsection (3),
(4) Every one who commits mischief in relation to property, other than property described in subsection (3) {{AnnSec4|430(3)}},
:(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years; or
:(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years; or
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.


...<br>
{{Removed|(4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)}}
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. C-46}}, s. 430;  
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.)}}, s. 57;  
}}
{{LegHistory90s|1994, c. 44}}, s. 28;  
{{LegHistory00s|2001, c. 41}}, s. 12;  
===Religious Property===
{{LegHistory00s|2005, c. 40}}, s. 3;  
{{quotation|
{{LegHistory10s|2014, c. 9}}, s. 1;
430.<br>...<br>
{{LegHistory10s|2017, c. 27}}, s. 1;  
; Mischief relating to religious property
{{LegHistory10s|2019, c. 25}}, s. 162.
(4.1) Every one who commits mischief in relation to property that is a building, structure or part thereof that is primarily used for religious worship, including a church, mosque, synagogue or temple, or an object associated with religious worship located in or on the grounds of such a building or structure, or a cemetery, if the commission of the mischief is motivated by bias, prejudice or hate based on religion, race, colour or national or ethnic origin,
|{{CCCSec2|430}}
:(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years; or
|{{NoteUp|430|4}}
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding eighteen months.
 
...<br>
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1; 2017, c. 27, s. 1.
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
}}
 
===War Memorials===
{{quotation|
430.<br>...<br>
; Mischief relating to war memorials
(4.11) Everyone who commits mischief in relation to property that is a building, structure or part thereof that primarily serves as a monument to honour persons who were killed or died as a consequence of a war, including a war memorial or cenotaph, or an object associated with honouring or remembering those persons that is located in or on the grounds of such a building or structure, or a cemetery is guilty of an indictable offence or an offence punishable on summary conviction and is liable,
:(a) whether the offence is prosecuted by indictment or punishable on summary conviction, to the following minimum punishment, namely,
::(i) for a first offence, to a fine of not less than $1,000,
::(ii) for a second offence, to imprisonment for not less than 14 days, and
::(iii) for each subsequent offence, to imprisonment for not less than 30 days;
:(b) if the offence is prosecuted by indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years; and
:(c) if the offence is punishable on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 18 months.
 
...<br>
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
}}
 
===Cultural Property===
{{quotation|
430.<br>...<br>
; Mischief in relation to cultural property
(4.2) Every one who commits mischief in relation to cultural property as defined in Article 1 of the Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, done at The Hague on May 14, 1954, as set out in the schedule to the Cultural Property Export and Import Act,
:(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years; or
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.
 
...<br>
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
}}
===Data===
 
{{quotation|
430.<br>...<br>
; Mischief in relation to computer data
(1.1) Everyone commits mischief who wilfully
:(a) destroys or alters computer data;
:(b) renders computer data meaningless, useless or ineffective;
:(c) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use of computer data; or
:(d) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with a person in the lawful use of computer data or denies access to computer data to a person who is entitled to access to it.
 
...<br>
; Mischief in relation to computer data
(5) Everyone who commits mischief in relation to computer data
:(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years; or
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.
 
...<br>
; Definition of computer data
(8) In this section, computer data has the same meaning as in subsection 342.1(2).<br>
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1, c. 31, s. 19.
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
}}
}}


===Dangerous Act or Omission===
===Dangerous Act or Omission (430(5.1))===
{{quotation|
{{quotation2|
...<br>
430<br>
{{Removed|(1), (1.1), (2), (3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2) and (5)}}
; Offence
; Offence
(5.1) Every one who wilfully does an act or wilfully omits to do an act that it is his duty to do, if that act or omission is likely to constitute mischief causing actual danger to life, or to constitute mischief in relation to property or data,
(5.1) Every one who wilfully does an act or wilfully omits to do an act that it is his duty to do, if that act or omission is likely to constitute mischief causing actual danger to life, or to constitute mischief in relation to property or data,
Line 175: Line 168:
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.
:(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.


...<br>
{{Removed|(6), (7) and (8)}}
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. C-46}}, s. 430;  
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.)}}, s. 57;  
{{LegHistory90s|1994, c. 44}}, s. 28;  
{{LegHistory00s|2001, c. 41}}, s. 12;  
{{LegHistory00s|2005, c. 40}}, s. 3;  
{{LegHistory10s|2014, c. 9}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2017, c. 27}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2019, c. 25}}, s. 162.
|{{CCCSec2|430}}
|{{NoteUp|430|5.1}}
}}
}}


===Defences===
===Draft Form of Charges===
{{quotation|
{{seealso|Draft Form of Charges}}
430.<br>...<br>
{{DraftHeader}}
; Saving
|-
(6) No person commits mischief within the meaning of this section by reason only that
| 430(2){{DescrSec|430(2)}}
:(a) he stops work as a result of the failure of his employer and himself to agree on any matter relating to his employment;
|
:(b) he stops work as a result of the failure of his employer and a bargaining agent acting on his behalf to agree on any matter relating to his employment; or
|"{{ellipsis1}}, contrary to section 430(2) of the ''Criminal Code''.
:(c) he stops work as a result of his taking part in a combination of workmen or employees for their own reasonable protection as workmen or employees.
|-
 
| 430(2){{DescrSec|430(3)}}
; Idem
|
(7) No person commits mischief within the meaning of this section by reason only that he attends at or near or approaches a dwelling-house or place for the purpose only of obtaining or communicating information.
|"{{ellipsis1}}, contrary to section 430(3) of the ''Criminal Code''.
<br>...<br>
|-
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1.
| 430(2){{DescrSec|430(4)}}
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
|
}}
|"{{ellipsis1}}, contrary to section 430(4) of the ''Criminal Code''.
 
|-
{{quotation|
| 430(5.1){{DescrSec|430(5.1)}}
; Wilfully causing event to occur
|
429. (1) Every one who causes the occurrence of an event by doing an act or by omitting to do an act that it is his duty to do, knowing that the act or omission will probably cause the occurrence of the event and being reckless whether the event occurs or not, shall be deemed, for the purposes of this Part, wilfully to have caused the occurrence of the event.
|"{{ellipsis1}}, contrary to section 430(5.1) of the ''Criminal Code''.
<br>
{{DraftEnd}}
; Colour of right
(2) No person shall be convicted of an offence under sections 430 to 446 where he proves that he acted with legal justification or excuse and with colour of right.
<br>
; Interest
(3) Where it is an offence to destroy or to damage anything,
:(a) the fact that a person has a partial interest in what is destroyed or damaged does not prevent him from being guilty of the offence if he caused the destruction or damage; and
:(b) the fact that a person has a total interest in what is destroyed or damaged does not prevent him from being guilty of the offence if he caused the destruction or damage with intent to defraud.
 
R.S., c. C-34, s. 386.
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec429 CCC]
}}


==Proof of the Offence==
==Proof of the Offence==
Line 218: Line 208:
{{ElementLeft}}
{{ElementLeft}}


{{Proving|mischief to property|430(3), (4)}}
{{Proving|mischief to property|430(3) or (4)}}
{{InitialElements}}
{{InitialElements}}
# {{box}} the culprit does any of the following:
# {{box}} the culprit does any of the following:
Line 225: Line 215:
## {{box}} "obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property"; or
## {{box}} "obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property"; or
## {{box}} "obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property"
## {{box}} "obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property"
# {{box}} Proof of ownership by someone other than accused <ref>see ''R v Power'' (1995), 141 N.S.R. (2d) 161, 403 A.P.R. 161 (N.S.S.C.), [http://canlii.ca/t/1mxg7 1995 CanLII 4472] (NS SC){{perNSSC|Scanlan J}}</ref>
# {{box}} Proof of ownership by someone other than accused <ref>see {{CanLIIRP|Power|1mxg7|1995 CanLII 4472 (NS SC)| (1995), 141 NSR (2d) 161, 403 APR 161 (N.S.S.C.)}}{{perNSSC|Scanlan J}}</ref>
# {{box}} the damage was wilfully or recklessly
# {{box}} the damage was wilfully or recklessly
# {{box}} the manner in which the damage occurred
# {{box}} the manner in which the damage occurred
Line 244: Line 234:
# {{box}} the culprit had an objective foresight that the prohibited consequence would result from his conduct.
# {{box}} the culprit had an objective foresight that the prohibited consequence would result from his conduct.


{{Proving|mischief in relation to data|430(1.1)}}
{{Proving|mischief by dangerous act or omission|430(5.1)}}
# {{box}} the underlying elements to mischief to property; and
# {{box}} ...
# {{box}} the culprit does ''any'' of the following:
# {{box}} ...
## {{box}} destroys data;
## {{box}} alters data;
## {{box}} "render data meaningless, useless or ineffective";
## {{box}} "obstructs, interrupts or interferes" with
### {{box}} "the lawful use of data"; or
### {{box}} "any person in the lawful use of data or denies access to data to any person who is entitled to access thereto."
 
{{ElementLeft}}
 
{{Proving|mischief in relation to war memorials|430(4.1)}}
# {{box}} the underlying elements to mischief to property; and
# {{box}} the subject matter of the offence is a war memorial.
 
{{ElementRight}}
 
{{Proving|mischief in relation to cultural property|430(4.2)}}
# {{box}} the underlying elements to mischief to property; and
# {{box}} the subject matter is "cultural property as defined in Article 1 of the Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict".


{{ElementEnd}}
{{ElementEnd}}
Line 271: Line 243:


==Interpretation of the Offence==
==Interpretation of the Offence==
Mischief include any case where the usefulness or value of the property has been impaired, at least temporarily.<ref>''R v Quickfall'', [http://canlii.ca/t/1pbz1 1993 CanLII 3509] (QC CA), (1993), 78 CCC (3d) 563, at p. 566 (Q.C.A.){{perQCCA|McCarthy JA and Proulx JA}}</ref>
Mischief include any case where the usefulness or value of the property has been impaired, at least temporarily.<ref>
However, this has be found not necessarily to include things like posters on lamp posts.<ReF>''R v Jeffers'', [http://canlii.ca/t/fpgx3 2012 ONCA 1] (CanLII){{perONCA|Laskin JA}} at paras 18-23</ref>
{{CanLIIRP|Quickfall|1pbz1|1993 CanLII 3509 (QC CA)|78 CCC (3d) 563}}{{atp|566}} (Q.C.A.){{perQCCA|McCarthy JA and Proulx JA}}</ref>
However, this has been found not necessarily to include things like posters on lamp posts.<ref>
{{CanLIIRP|Jeffers|fpgx3|2012 ONCA 1 (CanLII)|280 CCC (3d) 54}}{{perONCA|Laskin JA}}{{atsL|fpgx3|18| to 23}}</ref>


Where the subject-matter is under $5,000 in value, the offence is an [[Election|absolute jurisdiction offence]] and ''must'' be tried in provincial court.<ref>
Where the subject-matter is under $5,000 in value, the offence is an [[Election|absolute jurisdiction offence]] and ''must'' be tried in provincial court.<ref>
Line 279: Line 253:


The ''mens rea'' for mischief is either intention or recklessness.<ref>
The ''mens rea'' for mischief is either intention or recklessness.<ref>
''R v Schmidtke'', [1985] OJ No 84 (C.A.), [http://canlii.ca/t/gcdqg 1985 CanLII 3621] (ON CA){{perONCA|Robins JA}} at p. 4
{{CanLIIRP|Schmidtke|gcdqg|1985 CanLII 3621 (ON CA)|[1985] OJ No 84 (CA)}}{{perONCA|Robins JA}}{{atp|4}}
</ref>
</ref>


{{reflist|2}}
{{reflist|2}}
===Enjoyment (430(1))===
==="Enjoyment"===
"Enjoyment under s. 430(1)(d) is viewed from a subjective stand-point referring to the pleasure taken from the use of the property."<ref>
"Enjoyment under s. 430(1)(d) is viewed from a subjective stand-point referring to the pleasure taken from the use of the property."<ref>
''R v Nicol'', [http://canlii.ca/t/5g8x 2002 MBCA 151] (CanLII){{perMBCA|Huband JA}}
{{CanLIIRP|Nicol|5g8x|2002 MBCA 151 (CanLII)|170 CCC (3d) 59}}{{perMBCA|Huband JA}}
</ref>
</ref>


There is some division on whether "enjoyment" has a narrow meaning as it relates to "conduct in relation to property rights" or a more expansive view that includes "action of obtaining from property the satisfaction that the property can provide".<ref>
There is some division on whether "enjoyment" has a narrow meaning as it relates to "conduct in relation to property rights" or a more expansive view that includes "action of obtaining from property the satisfaction that the property can provide."<ref>
''R v Anderson'', [http://canlii.ca/t/25mck 2009 ABPC 249] (CanLII){{perABPC|Wenden J}}
{{CanLIIRP|Anderson|25mck|2009 ABPC 249 (CanLII)|10 Alta LR (5th) 377}}{{perABPC|Wenden J}}
</ref> British Columbia has sided on the more expansive definition.<ref>
</ref>  
See ''R v TW'', [1993] BCJ 2031{{NOCANLII}}<br>
British Columbia has sided on the more expansive definition.<ref>
''R v Wheldon'', [http://canlii.ca/t/g7fn5 2014 BCPC 119] (CanLII){{perBCPC|Gouge J}}{{at|8}}<br>
See {{CanLIIR-N|TW| [1993] BCJ 2031}}<br>
{{CanLIIRx|Wheldon|g7fn5|2014 BCPC 119 (CanLII)}}{{perBCPC|Gouge J}}{{atL|g7fn5|8}}<br>
</ref>
</ref>


It is not an essential requirement that the Crown prove the monetary value of the thing damaged as the offence will apply equally where the property is simply rendered dangerous.<ref>
It is not an essential requirement that the Crown prove the monetary value of the thing damaged as the offence will apply equally where the property is simply rendered dangerous.<ref>
''R v Barahona Villeda et al'', [http://canlii.ca/t/g6hzr 2014 BCPC 61] (CanLII){{perBCPC|Rideout J}}, para 285
{{CanLIIRx|Barahona Villeda et al|g6hzr|2014 BCPC 61 (CanLII)}}{{perBCPC|Rideout J}}{{atL|g6hzr|28}}
</ref>
</ref>


Line 302: Line 277:


===Danger to Life (430(2))===
===Danger to Life (430(2))===
Under section 430(2), a "danger to life...must be the physical outcome of the damage to the property and not merely incidental to the means".<ref>
Under section 430(2), a "danger to life...must be the physical outcome of the damage to the property and not merely incidental to the means."<ref>
''R v Nairn'' (1955), 112 CCC 272, (1955) N.J. No. 4 (NFLD C.A.), [http://canlii.ca/t/hvd9b 1955 CanLII 502] (NL SC){{perNLSC|Dunfield J}}, at page 273
{{CanLIIRP|Nairn|hvd9b|1955 CanLII 502 (NL SC)|112 CCC 272, (1955) NJ No 4 (NFLD C.A.)}}{{perNLSC|Dunfield J}}{{atp|273}}
</ref> The danger must be the direct result of the act.
</ref>
The danger must be the direct result of the act.


The accused must subjectively intend to endanger life of another person. Recklessness is insufficient for a conviction on s. 420(2) but ''is'' sufficient for a conviction under s. 430(5.1).<ref>
The accused must subjectively intend to endanger life of another person. Recklessness is insufficient for a conviction on s. 420(2) but ''is'' sufficient for a conviction under s. 430(5.1).<ref>
''R v Lee'', [http://canlii.ca/t/fpmd2 2011 BCPC 367] (CanLII){{perBCPC|Challenger J}}<br>
{{CanLIIRx|Lee|fpmd2|2011 BCPC 367 (CanLII)}}{{perBCPC|Challenger J}}<br>
see also ''R v SDD'', [http://canlii.ca/t/4vb1 2002 NFCA 18] (CanLII), 164 CCC (3d) 1{{perNLCA|Wells CJ}}
see also {{CanLIIRP|SDD|4vb1|2002 NFCA 18 (CanLII)|164 CCC (3d) 1}}{{perNLCA|Wells CJ}}
</ref>
</ref>


{{Reflist|2}}
{{Reflist|2}}


===In Relation to Data (430(1.1))===
===Ownership===
The owner of the property is not a relevant factor unless the accused owned it. The identity of the owner is not an essential element.<ref>
{{CanLIIRP|Forsythe|2djrp|1986 ABCA 79 (CanLII)| (1986), 70 AR 294 (CA)}}{{perABCA|Kerans JA}}</ref>
Thus, the property can include trash or garbage.<ref>
''Williams v Phillips'' (1957), 41 Cr. App. R. 5 (CA)<br>
{{CanLIIRP|Pace|gwf84|1964 CanLII 597 (NSCA)|[1965] 3 CCC 55 (NSCA)}}{{perNSCA|Ilsley CJ}}</ref>However, there must be at least some evidence that the property does not belong to the accused.
 
{{Reflist|2}}
 
===Mischief to Data (430(1.1) and (5))===
Mischief in relation to data can underlie a charge of [[Unauthorized Use of Computer (Offence)|unauthorized use of a computer]].
Mischief in relation to data can underlie a charge of [[Unauthorized Use of Computer (Offence)|unauthorized use of a computer]].


Where charged in reference to the theft of data will not be valid as data cannot be stolen.<ref>
Where charged in reference to the theft of data will not be valid as data cannot be stolen.<ref>
''R v Maurer'', [http://canlii.ca/t/g72b9 2014 SKPC 118] (CanLII){{perSKPC|Metivier J}}
{{CanLIIRP|Maurer|g72b9|2014 SKPC 118 (CanLII)|447 Sask R 76}}{{perSKPC|Metivier J}}
</ref>
 
The deletion of a person's text messages from their phone without consent may constitute mischief to data.<ref>
{{CanLIIRx|Charlton|g7gq2|2014 QCCQ 4789 (CanLII)}}{{perQCCQ|Poulin J}}
</ref>
 
The ''mens rea'' for mischief to data is not satisfied by mere recklessness.<Ref>
{{CanLIIRx|Livingston|hpw2f|2018 ONCJ 25 (CanLII)}}{{perONCJ|Lipson J}}{{atL|hpw2f|84}} ("Attempted mischief to data requires actual intent and purpose and not just recklessness. Although s. 429(1) provides that the completed offence can be made out with recklessness, recklessness does not suffice for liability grounded in attempt. That is because s. 24 of the Criminal Code, the provision creating the offence of attempt, requires an intent to commit the offence and a purpose of carrying out that intention:...")<br>
</ref>
</ref>


{{Reflist|2}}
{{reflist|2}}
 
==Defences==
{{quotation2|
430<br>
{{removed|(1), (1.1), (2), (3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5) and (5.1)}}
; Saving
(6) No person commits mischief within the meaning of this section by reason only that
:(a) he stops work as a result of the failure of his employer and himself to agree on any matter relating to his employment;
:(b) he stops work as a result of the failure of his employer and a bargaining agent acting on his behalf to agree on any matter relating to his employment; or
:(c) he stops work as a result of his taking part in a combination of workmen or employees for their own reasonable protection as workmen or employees.


===Ownership===
; Idem
The owner of the property is not a relevant factor unless the accused owned it. The identity of the owner is not an essential element.<ref>''R v Forsythe'' (1986), 70 A.R. 294 (C.A.), [http://canlii.ca/t/2djrp 1986 ABCA 79] (CanLII){{perABCA|Kerans JA}}</ref> Thus, the property can include trash or garbage.<ref>''Williams v Phillips'' (1957), 41 Cr. App. R. 5 (C.A.)<br>
(7) No person commits mischief within the meaning of this section by reason only that he attends at or near or approaches a dwelling-house or place for the purpose only of obtaining or communicating information.
''R v Pace'', [1965] 3 CCC 55 (NSCA), [http://canlii.ca/t/gwf84 1964 CanLII 597] (NS CA){{perNSCA|Ilsley CJ}}</ref>However, there must be at least some evidence that the property does not belong to the accused.


{{Reflist|2}}
{{removed|(8)}}
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. C-46}}, s. 430;
R.S., {{LegHistory80s|1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.)}}, s. 57;
{{LegHistory90s|1994, c. 44}}, s. 28;
{{LegHistory00s|2001, c. 41}}, s. 12;
{{LegHistory00s|2005, c. 40}}, s. 3;
{{LegHistory10s|2014, c. 9}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2017, c. 27}}, s. 1;
{{LegHistory10s|2019, c. 25}}, s. 162.
|{{CCCSec2|430}}
|{{NoteUp|430|6|7}}
}}


==="Property" under s. 430(3.1)===
{{quotation2|
; Wilfully causing event to occur
429 (1) Every one who causes the occurrence of an event by doing an act or by omitting to do an act that it is his duty to do, knowing that the act or omission will probably cause the occurrence of the event and being reckless whether the event occurs or not, shall be deemed, for the purposes of this Part {{AnnSec|Part XI}}, wilfully to have caused the occurrence of the event.
<br>
; Colour of right
(2) No person shall be convicted of an offence under sections 430 to 446 {{AnnSec4|430 to 446}} where he proves that he acted with legal justification or excuse and with colour of right.
<br>
; Interest
(3) Where it is an offence to destroy or to damage anything,
:(a) the fact that a person has a partial interest in what is destroyed or damaged does not prevent him from being guilty of the offence if he caused the destruction or damage; and
:(b) the fact that a person has a total interest in what is destroyed or damaged does not prevent him from being guilty of the offence if he caused the destruction or damage with intent to defraud.


{{quotation|
R.S., c. C-34, s. 386.
430
{{Annotation}}
<br>...<br>
|{{CCCSec2|429}}
; Definition of property
|{{NoteUp|429|1|2|3}}
(4.‍101) For the purposes of subsection (4.‍1), property means
:(a) a building or structure, or part of a building or structure, that is primarily used for religious worship — including a church, mosque, synagogue or temple —, an object associated with religious worship located in or on the grounds of such a building or structure, or a cemetery;
:(b) a building or structure, or part of a building or structure, that is primarily used by an identifiable group as defined in subsection 318(4) as an educational institution — including a school, daycare centre, college or university —, or an object associated with that institution located in or on the grounds of such a building or structure;
:(c) a building or structure, or part of a building or structure, that is primarily used by an identifiable group as defined in subsection 318(4) for administrative, social, cultural or sports activities or events — including a town hall, community centre, playground or arena —, or an object associated with such an activity or event located in or on the grounds of such a building or structure; or
:(d) a building or structure, or part of a building or structure, that is primarily used by an identifiable group as defined in subsection 318(4) as a residence for seniors or an object associated with that residence located in or on the grounds of such a building or structure.
<br>...<br>
|[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2#sec430 CCC]
}}
}}


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; On Finding of Guilt
; On Finding of Guilt
{{606Notice5Y|s. 430}}
{{VictimHeader}} <!-- Sections / Notice of Agree / Notice of Restitution / Notice of VIS -->
|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}}<br>s. 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}}<br>s. 430(5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}} || || ||
|-
|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} || || ||
|-
{{VictimEnd}}{{606Notice5Y|s. 430}}


{{RestitutionNotice}}
{{RestitutionNotice}}
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<!--
<!--
{{SProfileMaxHeader}}
{{SProfileMaxHeader}}
{{SProfileMax|s. | Summary Election | }}
{{SProfileMax|s. | {{summary}} | }}
{{SProfileMax|s. | Indictable Election | }}
{{SProfileMax|s. | {{indictment}} | }}
{{SProfileEnd}}
{{SProfileEnd}}


-->
-->
{{MaxPenaltyHybrid|s. 430(3), (4), (4.1), (4.11), (4.2), or (5)|'''2 years incarceration''' under s. 430(4) [under $5,000], '''5 years incarceration''' under s. 430(5.1) [omission], or '''10 years incarceration''' under s. 430(3) [$5,000 and above], (4.1) [religious property], (4.2) [cultural property], (4.11) [war memorial] or (5) [data]|'''{{summaryconviction}}''' under s. 420(3) [$5,000 and above], 430(4) [under $5,000], (4.2) [cultural property], (5) [data] and s. 430(5.1) [omission] or '''18 months jail''' under s. 430(4.1) [religious property] and (4.11) [war memorials]}}
{{MaxPenaltyHybrid|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}}, (4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}}, or (5) {{DescrSec|430(5)}}|'''{{Max2Years}}''' under s. 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}}, '''{{Max5Years}}''' under s. 430(5.1) [omission], or '''{{Max10Years}}''' under s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}} or (5) {{DescrSec|430(5)}}|'''{{summaryconviction}}''' under s. 420(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}}, 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}}, (5) {{DescrSec|430(5)}} and s. 430(5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}}}}


{{MaxPenaltyIndictment|s. 430(2)|'''life''' incarceration}}
{{MaxPenaltyIndictment|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}}|'''{{MaxLife}}'''}}


; Minimum Penalties
; Minimum Penalties
Line 378: Line 399:
; Available Dispositions
; Available Dispositions
{{SProfileAvailHeader}}
{{SProfileAvailHeader}}
|s. 430(3), (4), (4.1), (4.2), (5) or (5.1) || any || {{SProfileAll}}
|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}},<br> 430(4) {{DescrSec|430(4)}} or <br>430(5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}} || any || {{SProfileAll}}
|-
|-
|s. 430(4.11) || any || {{SProfileNoDischarge}}
|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} || {{NA}} || {{SProfileNoDischargeOrCSO}}
|-
|s. 430(2) || {{NA}} || {{SProfileNoDischargeOrCSO}}
|-
|-
{{SProfileEnd}}
{{SProfileEnd}}
Line 399: Line 418:
{{seealso|Ancillary Orders}}
{{seealso|Ancillary Orders}}
'''Offence-specific Orders'''
; Offence-specific Orders
{{AOrderHeader}}
{{AOrderHeader}}


{{AOrder1| [[DNA Orders]] |s. 430 (2), (3), (4.1), (4.11), (4.2), (5), or (5.1)|
{{AOrder1| [[DNA Orders]] |430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}},<br>430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}}, or <br>430(5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}} |
* {{SecondDNA(AorB)|s. 430(2) [endangering life]}}
* {{SecondDNA(AorB)|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} }}
* {{SecondDNA(AorB)Hybrid|s. 430(3), (4.1), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1)}} }}
* {{SecondDNA(AorB)Hybrid|s. 430(3) {{DescrSec|430(3)}}, (5.1) {{DescrSec|430(5.1)}}}}  }}


{{AOrder1| [[Delayed Parole Eligibility|Delayed Parole Order]] |s. 430(2) |
{{AOrder1| [[Delayed Parole Eligibility|Delayed Parole Order]] |s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} |
* {{ParoleDelayEligible|1|s. 430(2)}} }}
* {{ParoleDelayEligible|1|s. 430(2) {{DescrSec|430(2)}} }} }}


{{AOrderEnd}}
{{AOrderEnd}}


'''General Sentencing Orders'''
; General Sentencing Orders
{{GeneralSentencingOrders}}
{{GeneralSentencingOrders}}


'''General Forfeiture Orders'''
; General Forfeiture Orders
{{GeneralForfeitureOrders}}
{{GeneralForfeitureOrders}}
:''Note: mischief to property not exceeding $5,000 is not eligible for DNA Order''
==Record Suspensions and Pardons==
{{RecordSuspension|s. 430 }}


==History==
==History==
{{seealso|List of Criminal Code Amendments}}
{{seealso|List of Criminal Code Amendments|Table of Concordance (Criminal Code)}}


* [[History of Mischief Offences]]
* [[History of Mischief Offences]]


==See Also==
==See Also==
'''References'''
* [[Mischief to Cultural Property (Offence)]]
* [[Mischief to Data (Offence)]]
; References
* [[Pre-Trial and Trial Motions Checklist]]
* [[Pre-Trial and Trial Motions Checklist]]
{{OffencesNavBar/Property}}
{{OffencesNavBar/Property}}
{{OffencesNavBar/Violence}}
{{OffencesNavBar/Violence}}
[[Category:Offences Punishable on Summary Conviction]]
[[Category:Offences with Maximum Penalty of 18 Months]]
[[Category:Offences with Maximum Penalty of 2 Years]]
[[Category:Offences with Maximum Penalty of 5 Years]]
[[Category:Offences with Maximum Penalty of 10 Years]]
[[Category:Offences with Maximum Penalty of Life]]

Latest revision as of 22:06, 3 September 2024

This page was last substantively updated or reviewed January 2020. (Rev. # 96342)
Mischief
s. 430 of the Crim. Code
Election / Plea
Crown Election varies
summary proceedings must initiate within 12 months of the offence (786(2))
Jurisdiction varies
Summary Dispositions
Avail. Disp. Discharge (730)

Suspended Sentence (731(1)(a))
Fine (734)
Fine + Probation (731(1)(b))
Jail (718.3, 787)
Jail + Probation (731(1)(b))
Jail + Fine (734)

Conditional Sentence (742.1)
Minimum None
Maximum 2 years less a day jail and/or a $5,000 fine (from Sept 19, 2019)
Indictable Dispositions
Avail. Disp. Discharge (730)*

Suspended Sentence (731(1)(a))
Fine (734)
Fine + Probation (731(1)(b))
Jail (718.3, 787)
Jail + Probation (731(1)(b))
Jail + Fine (734)
Conditional Sentence (742.1)*

(* varies)
Minimum None
Maximum 2 years incarceration (other)
10 years incarceration (test., over $5k, data)
Life (endanger life)
Reference
Offence Elements
Sentence Digests

Overview

See also: Mischief to Data (Offence) and Mischief to Cultural Property (Offence)

Offences relating to mischief are found in Part XI of the Criminal Code relating to "Wilful and Forbidden Acts in Respect of Certain Property".

Mischief concerns the interference with another person's property. Most typically this involves property damage such as vandalism. Section 430 describes several forms of the offence of mischief.

The offences can be grouped into mischief involving the damaging of property, mischief involving the interference with the use of property, mischief involving the interference with electronic data, and mischief causing danger to life.

Pleadings
Offence
Section
Offence
Type
Crown Election Defence Election
s. 536(2)
Preliminary Inquiry
s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000] Hybrid Offence(s) (* only if Crown proceeds by Indictment) (under 14 years max)
s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000] Hybrid Offence(s)
(Absolute Jurisdiction)
(Absolute Jurisdiction)
s. 430(5.1) [act or omission causing risk to life] Hybrid Offence(s) (* only if Crown proceeds by Indictment) (under 14 years max)
s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life] Indictable Offence(s)

Offences under s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000] are hybrid with a Crown election. If prosecuted by indictment, there is a Defence election of Court under s. 536(2).

Offences under s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000] are absolute jurisdiction offences under s. 553(a) and so does not have a defence election of court. It must be tried by a provincial court judge.

Offences under s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life] are straight indictable. There is a Defence election of Court under s. 536(2).

Release
Offence(s) Appearance Notice
by Peace Officer

s. 497
Summons
by Judge or Justice

s. 508(1), 512(1), or 788
Release by
Peace Officer
on Undertaking

s. 498, 499, and 501
Release By
a Judge or Justice
on a Release Order

s. 515 to 519
Direct to Attend
for Fingerprints, etc.
Identification of Criminals Act

s. 2 ID Crim. Act
s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000]
s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000] or
s. 430(5.1) [act or omission causing risk to life]
s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life]

When charged under s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000] or (4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000], the accused can be given an appearance notice without arrest under s. 497 or a summons. If arrested, he can be released by the arresting officer under s. 498 or 499 on an undertaking with or without conditions. He can also be released by a justice under s. 515.

When charged under s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life] , the accused can be given a judicial summons without arrest. If arrested, he can be released by the arresting officer under s. 498 or 499 on an undertaking with or without conditions. He can also be released by a justice under s. 515.

Fingerprints and Photos

A peace officer who charges a person under s. 430 [mischief] of the Code can require that person to attend for the taking of fingerprints, photographs or other similar recordings that are used to identify them under the Identification of Criminals Act.

Publication Bans

For all criminal or regulatory prosecutions, there is a discretionary general publication ban available on application of the Crown, victim or witness to prohibit the publishing of "any information that could identify the victim or witness" under s. 486.5(1) where it is "necessary" for the "proper administration of justice". Other available publication bans include prohibitions for publishing evidence or other information arising from a bail hearing (s. 517), preliminary inquiry (s. 539) or jury trial (s. 648). There is a mandatory publication ban in all youth prosecutions on information tending to identify young accused under s. 110 of the YCJA or young victims under s. 111 of the YCJA.

Offence Designations
Offence(s) Wiretap
Eligible

s. 183
Dangerous Offender
Designated Offence

s. 752
Serious Personal
Injury Offence

s. 752
AG Consent Required Serious Criminality
Offence
s. 36 IRPA
s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life]
s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000] (by indictment only)
s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000]
s. 430(5.1) [act or omission causing risk to life]

See below in Ancillary Sentencing Orders for details on designations relating to sentencing orders.

Offence Wording

Generally

Mischief

430 (1) Every one commits mischief who wilfully

(a) destroys or damages property;
(b) renders property dangerous, useless, inoperative or ineffective;
(c) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property; or
(d) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property.

[omitted (1.1), (2), (3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)]
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1; 2017, c. 27, s. 1; 2019, c. 25, s. 162.

CCC (CanLII), (DOJ)


Note up: 430(1)

Endangering Life (430(2))

430
[omitted (1) and (1.1)]

Punishment

(2) Every one who commits mischief that causes actual danger to life is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for life.

[omitted (3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)]
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1; 2017, c. 27, s. 1; 2019, c. 25, s. 162.

CCC (CanLII), (DOJ)


Note up: 430(2)

Testamentary Instruments $5,000 and Above (430(3))

430
[omitted (1), (1.1) and (2)]

Punishment

(3) Every one who commits mischief in relation to property that is a testamentary instrument or the value of which exceeds five thousand dollars

(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.

[omitted (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)]
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1; 2017, c. 27, s. 1; 2019, c. 25, s. 162.

CCC (CanLII), (DOJ)


Note up: 430(3)

Under $5,000 (430(4))

430
[omitted (1), (1.1), (2) and (3)]

Idem

(4) Every one who commits mischief in relation to property, other than property described in subsection (3) [mischief to testamentary instrument or property exceeding $5,000],

(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.

[omitted (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5), (5.1), (6), (7) and (8)]
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1; 2017, c. 27, s. 1; 2019, c. 25, s. 162.

CCC (CanLII), (DOJ)


Note up: 430(4)

Dangerous Act or Omission (430(5.1))

430
[omitted (1), (1.1), (2), (3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2) and (5)]

Offence

(5.1) Every one who wilfully does an act or wilfully omits to do an act that it is his duty to do, if that act or omission is likely to constitute mischief causing actual danger to life, or to constitute mischief in relation to property or data,

(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.

[omitted (6), (7) and (8)]
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1; 2017, c. 27, s. 1; 2019, c. 25, s. 162.

CCC (CanLII), (DOJ)


Note up: 430(5.1)

Draft Form of Charges

See also: Draft Form of Charges
Pre-ambles
"THAT [accused full name] stands charged that, between the <DATE> day of <MONTH>, <YEAR> and <DATE> day of <MONTH>, <YEAR>***, at or near <COMMUNITY/TOWN/CITY>, <PROVINCE>, he [or she]..." OR
"THAT [accused full name] stands charged that, on or about the <DATE> day of <MONTH>, <YEAR>, at or near <COMMUNITY/TOWN/CITY>, <PROVINCE>, he [or she]..." OR
"AND FURTHER at the same time and place aforesaid, he [or she]..."
Code Section Subject of Offence Draft Wording
430(2)[mischief causing danger to life] "..., contrary to section 430(2) of the Criminal Code.
430(2)[mischief of value exceeding $5,000] "..., contrary to section 430(3) of the Criminal Code.
430(2)[mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000] "..., contrary to section 430(4) of the Criminal Code.
430(5.1)[act or omission causing risk to life] "..., contrary to section 430(5.1) of the Criminal Code.

Proof of the Offence

Proving mischief to property under s. 430(3) or (4) should include:

  1. identity of accused as culprit
  2. date and time of the incident
  3. jurisdiction (incl. region and province)
  4. the culprit does any of the following:
    1. "destroys or damages" the property;
    2. "renders property dangerous, useless, inoperative or ineffective";
    3. "obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property"; or
    4. "obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property"
  5. Proof of ownership by someone other than accused [1]
  6. the damage was wilfully or recklessly
  7. the manner in which the damage occurred
  8. the state of the property before damage
  9. the state of the property after damage
  10. value of property damaged: (over $5,000 (s. 430(3)), equal or under $5,000 (s. 430(4)); and
  11. the culprit had no "colour of right".

Proving mischief to testamentary instruments under s. 430(3) should include:

  1. the underlying elements to mischief to property; and
  2. the subject matter is a "testamentary instrument".

Proving mischief causing actual danger to life under s. 430(2) should include:

  1. the underlying elements to mischief to property; and
  2. the prohibited conduct causes "causes actual danger to life";
  3. the culprit had an objective foresight that the prohibited consequence would result from his conduct.

Proving mischief by dangerous act or omission under s. 430(5.1) should include:

  1. ...
  2. ...
  1. see R v Power, 1995 CanLII 4472 (NS SC), (1995), 141 NSR (2d) 161, 403 APR 161 (N.S.S.C.), per Scanlan J

Interpretation of the Offence

Mischief include any case where the usefulness or value of the property has been impaired, at least temporarily.[1] However, this has been found not necessarily to include things like posters on lamp posts.[2]

Where the subject-matter is under $5,000 in value, the offence is an absolute jurisdiction offence and must be tried in provincial court.[3]

The mens rea for mischief is either intention or recklessness.[4]

  1. R v Quickfall, 1993 CanLII 3509 (QC CA), 78 CCC (3d) 563, at p. 566 (Q.C.A.), per McCarthy JA and Proulx JA
  2. R v Jeffers, 2012 ONCA 1 (CanLII), 280 CCC (3d) 54, per Laskin JA, at paras 18 to 23
  3. see s. 553(a)
  4. R v Schmidtke, 1985 CanLII 3621 (ON CA), [1985] OJ No 84 (CA), per Robins JA, at p. 4

"Enjoyment"

"Enjoyment under s. 430(1)(d) is viewed from a subjective stand-point referring to the pleasure taken from the use of the property."[1]

There is some division on whether "enjoyment" has a narrow meaning as it relates to "conduct in relation to property rights" or a more expansive view that includes "action of obtaining from property the satisfaction that the property can provide."[2] British Columbia has sided on the more expansive definition.[3]

It is not an essential requirement that the Crown prove the monetary value of the thing damaged as the offence will apply equally where the property is simply rendered dangerous.[4]

  1. R v Nicol, 2002 MBCA 151 (CanLII), 170 CCC (3d) 59, per Huband JA
  2. R v Anderson, 2009 ABPC 249 (CanLII), 10 Alta LR (5th) 377, per Wenden J
  3. See R v TW [1993] BCJ 2031(*no CanLII links)
    R v Wheldon, 2014 BCPC 119 (CanLII), per Gouge J, at para 8
  4. R v Barahona Villeda et al, 2014 BCPC 61 (CanLII), per Rideout J, at para 28

Danger to Life (430(2))

Under section 430(2), a "danger to life...must be the physical outcome of the damage to the property and not merely incidental to the means."[1] The danger must be the direct result of the act.

The accused must subjectively intend to endanger life of another person. Recklessness is insufficient for a conviction on s. 420(2) but is sufficient for a conviction under s. 430(5.1).[2]

  1. R v Nairn, 1955 CanLII 502 (NL SC), 112 CCC 272, (1955) NJ No 4 (NFLD C.A.), per Dunfield J, at p. 273
  2. R v Lee, 2011 BCPC 367 (CanLII), per Challenger J
    see also R v SDD, 2002 NFCA 18 (CanLII), 164 CCC (3d) 1, per Wells CJ

Ownership

The owner of the property is not a relevant factor unless the accused owned it. The identity of the owner is not an essential element.[1] Thus, the property can include trash or garbage.[2]However, there must be at least some evidence that the property does not belong to the accused.

  1. R v Forsythe, 1986 ABCA 79 (CanLII), (1986), 70 AR 294 (CA), per Kerans JA
  2. Williams v Phillips (1957), 41 Cr. App. R. 5 (CA)
    R v Pace, 1964 CanLII 597 (NSCA), [1965] 3 CCC 55 (NSCA), per Ilsley CJ

Mischief to Data (430(1.1) and (5))

Mischief in relation to data can underlie a charge of unauthorized use of a computer.

Where charged in reference to the theft of data will not be valid as data cannot be stolen.[1]

The deletion of a person's text messages from their phone without consent may constitute mischief to data.[2]

The mens rea for mischief to data is not satisfied by mere recklessness.[3]

  1. R v Maurer, 2014 SKPC 118 (CanLII), 447 Sask R 76, per Metivier J
  2. R v Charlton, 2014 QCCQ 4789 (CanLII), per Poulin J
  3. R v Livingston, 2018 ONCJ 25 (CanLII), per Lipson J, at para 84 ("Attempted mischief to data requires actual intent and purpose and not just recklessness. Although s. 429(1) provides that the completed offence can be made out with recklessness, recklessness does not suffice for liability grounded in attempt. That is because s. 24 of the Criminal Code, the provision creating the offence of attempt, requires an intent to commit the offence and a purpose of carrying out that intention:...")

Defences

430
[omitted (1), (1.1), (2), (3), (4), (4.1), (4.101), (4.11), (4.2), (5) and (5.1)]

Saving

(6) No person commits mischief within the meaning of this section by reason only that

(a) he stops work as a result of the failure of his employer and himself to agree on any matter relating to his employment;
(b) he stops work as a result of the failure of his employer and a bargaining agent acting on his behalf to agree on any matter relating to his employment; or
(c) he stops work as a result of his taking part in a combination of workmen or employees for their own reasonable protection as workmen or employees.
Idem

(7) No person commits mischief within the meaning of this section by reason only that he attends at or near or approaches a dwelling-house or place for the purpose only of obtaining or communicating information.

[omitted (8)]
R.S., 1985, c. C-46, s. 430; R.S., 1985, c. 27 (1st Supp.), s. 57; 1994, c. 44, s. 28; 2001, c. 41, s. 12; 2005, c. 40, s. 3; 2014, c. 9, s. 1; 2017, c. 27, s. 1; 2019, c. 25, s. 162.

CCC (CanLII), (DOJ)


Note up: 430(6) and (7)

Wilfully causing event to occur

429 (1) Every one who causes the occurrence of an event by doing an act or by omitting to do an act that it is his duty to do, knowing that the act or omission will probably cause the occurrence of the event and being reckless whether the event occurs or not, shall be deemed, for the purposes of this Part [Pt. XI – Wilful and Forbidden Acts in Respect of Certain Property (ss. 428 to 447.1)], wilfully to have caused the occurrence of the event.

Colour of right

(2) No person shall be convicted of an offence under sections 430 to 446 [certain property offences from Part XI] where he proves that he acted with legal justification or excuse and with colour of right.

Interest

(3) Where it is an offence to destroy or to damage anything,

(a) the fact that a person has a partial interest in what is destroyed or damaged does not prevent him from being guilty of the offence if he caused the destruction or damage; and
(b) the fact that a person has a total interest in what is destroyed or damaged does not prevent him from being guilty of the offence if he caused the destruction or damage with intent to defraud.

R.S., c. C-34, s. 386.
[annotation(s) added]

CCC (CanLII), (DOJ)


Note up: 429(1), (2) and (3)

Participation of Third Parties

See also: Role of the Victim and Third Parties and Testimonial Aids for Young, Disabled or Vulnerable Witnesses
Testimonial Aids

Certain persons who testify are entitled to make application for the use of testimonial aids: Exclusion of Public (s. 486), Use of a Testimonial Screen (s. 486), Access to Support Person While Testifying (s. 486.1), Close Proximity Video-link Testimony (s. 486.2), Self-Represented Cross-Examination Prohibition Order (s. 486.3), and Witness Security Order (s. 486.7).

A witness, victim or complainant may also request publication bans (s. 486.4, 486.5) and/or a Witness Identity Non-disclosure Order (s. 486.31). See also, Publication Bans, above.

On Finding of Guilt
Offence(s) Victim Notice
of Agreement
s. 606(4.1)
[SPIO]
Victim Queried
for Interest in Agreement
s. 606(4.2)
[5+ years]
Victim Notice
for Restitution
s. 737.1
Victim Notice
of Impact Statement
s. 722(2)
s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000]
s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000]
s. 430(5.1) [act or omission causing risk to life]
s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life]

For any indictable offence with a maximum penalty no less than 5 years (including offences under s. 430), but are not serious personal injury offences, s. 606(4.2) requires that after accepting a guilty plea, the judge must inquire whether "any of the victims had advised the prosecutor of their desire to be informed if such an agreement were entered into, and, if so, whether reasonable steps were taken to inform that victim of the agreement". Failing to take reasonable steps at guilty plea requires the prosecutor to "as soon as feasible, take reasonable steps to inform the victim of the agreement and the acceptance of the plea" (s. 606(4.3)).

Under s. 738, a judge must inquire from the Crown before sentencing whether "reasonable steps have been taken to provide the victims with an opportunity to indicate whether they are seeking restitution for their losses and damages".

Under s. 722(2), the judge must inquire "[a]s soon as feasible" before sentencing with the Crown "if reasonable steps have been taken to provide the victim with an opportunity to prepare" a victim impact statement. This will include any person "who has suffered, or is alleged to have suffered, physical or emotional harm, property damage or economic loss" as a result of the offence. Individuals representing a community impacted by the crime may file a statement under s. 722.2.

Sentencing Principles and Ranges

See also: Purpose and Principles of Sentencing, Sentencing Factors Relating to the Offender, and Sentencing Factors Relating to the Offence
See also: Property and Fraud Offences (Sentencing)

Sentencing Profile

Maximum Penalties

Offences under s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000], (4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000], or (5) [mischief to data] are hybrid. If prosecuted by indictment, the maximum penalty is 2 years incarceration under s. 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000], 5 years incarceration under s. 430(5.1) [omission], or 10 years incarceration under s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000] or (5) [mischief to data]. If prosecuted by summary conviction, the maximum penalty is 2 years less a day jail and/or a $5,000 fine (from Sept 19, 2019) under s. 420(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000], 430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000], (5) [mischief to data] and s. 430(5.1) [act or omission causing risk to life].

Offences under s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life] are straight indictable. The maximum penalty is life incarceration.

Minimum Penalties

There are no mandatory minimums, except for convictions under s. 430(4.11) which require a minimum penalty is $1,000 fine (no prior convictions) or 14 days jail (second conviction), or 30 days jail (third or more convictions).

Available Dispositions
Offence(s) Crown
Election
Discharge
s. 730
Suspended
Sentence

s. 731(1)(a)
Stand-alone
Fine

s. 731(1)(b)
Custody
s. 718.3, 787
Custody and
Probation
s. 731(1)(b)
Custody and
Fine
s. 734
Conditional
Sentence
(CSO)
s. 742.1
s. 430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000],
430(4) [mischief other than testamentary instruments or value exceeding $5,000] or
430(5.1) [act or omission causing risk to life]
any
s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life] N/A

All dispositions are available.The judge may order a discharge (s. 730), suspended sentence (s. 731(1)(a)), fine (s. 731(1)(b)), custody (s. 718.3, 787), custody with probation (s. 731(1)(b)), custody with a fine (s. 734), or a conditional sentence (s. 742.1).

Consecutive Sentences

There are no statutory requirements that the sentences be consecutive.

Principles

Persons convicted of mischief under $5,000 who have no prior record will frequently receive a probationary period with either a suspended sentence or conditional discharge.

Ranges

see also: Mischief (Sentencing Cases)

Ancillary Sentencing Orders

See also: Ancillary Orders
Offence-specific Orders
Order Conviction Description
DNA Orders 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life],
430(3) [mischief of value exceeding $5,000], or
430(5.1) [act or omission causing risk to life]
Delayed Parole Order s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life]
  • Periods of imprisonment of 2 years or more for convictions under s. 430(2) [mischief causing danger to life] are eligible for delayed parole order under s. 743.6(1) requiring the offender to serve at least "one half of the sentence or ten years, whichever is less", "where denunciation of the offence or the objective of specific or general deterrence so requires".
General Sentencing Orders
Order Conviction Description
Non-communication order while offender in custody (s. 743.21) any The judge has the discretion to order that the offender be prohibited "from communicating...with any victim, witness or other person" while in custody except where the judge "considers [it] necessary" to communicate with them.
Restitution Orders (s. 738) any A discretionary Order is available for things such as the replacement value of the property; the pecuniary damages incurred from harm, expenses fleeing a domestic partner; or certain expenses arising from the commission of an offence under s.402.2 or 403.
Victim Fine Surcharge (s. 737) any A discretionary surcharge under s. 737 of 30% of any fine order imposed, $100 per summary conviction or $200 per indictable conviction. If the offence occurs on or after October 23, 2013, the order has smaller minimum amounts (15%, $50, or $100).
General Forfeiture Orders
Forfeiture Conviction Description
Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime (s. 462.37(1) or (2.01)) any Where there is a finding of guilt for an indictable offence under the Code or the CDSA in which property is "proceeds of crime" and offence was "committed in relation to that property", the property shall be forfeited to His Majesty the King on application of the Crown. NB: does not apply to summary offences.
Fine in Lieu of Forfeiture (s. 462.37(3)) any Where a Court is satisfied an order for the forfeiture of proceeds of crime under s. 462.37(1) or (2.01) can be made, but that property cannot be "made subject to an order", then the Court "may" order a fine in "an amount equal to the value of the property". Failure to pay the fine will result in a default judgement imposing a period of incarceration.
Forfeiture of Weapons or Firearms (s. 491) any Where there is finding of guilt for an offence where a "weapon, an imitation firearm, a prohibited device, any ammunition, any prohibited ammunition or an explosive substance was used in the commission of [the] offence and that thing has been seized and detained", or "that a person has committed an offence that involves, or the subject-matter of which is, a firearm, a cross-bow, a prohibited weapon, a restricted weapon, a prohibited device, ammunition, prohibited ammunition or an explosive substance has been seized and detained, that the item be an enumerated weapon or related item be connected to the offence", then there will be a mandatory forfeiture order. However, under s. 491(2), if the lawful owner "was not a party to the offence" and the judge has "no reasonable grounds to believe that the thing would or might be used in the commission of an offence", then it should be returned to the lawful owner.
Forfeiture of Offence-related Property (s. 490.1) any Where there is a finding of guilt for an indictable offence, "any property is offence-related property" where (a) by means or in respect of which an indictable offence under this Act or the Corruption of Foreign Public Officials Act is committed, (b) that is used in any manner in connection with the commission of such an offence, or (c) that is intended to be used for committing such an offence". Such property is to be forfeited to Her Majesty in right of the province. NB: does not apply to summary offences.
Note: mischief to property not exceeding $5,000 is not eligible for DNA Order

Record Suspensions and Pardons

Convictions under s. 430 are eligible for record suspensions pursuant to s. 3 and 4 of the Criminal Records Act after 5 years after the expiration of sentence for summary conviction offences and 10 years after the expiration of sentence for all other offences. The offender may not have the record suspended where the offender was (1) convicted of 3 or more offences with a maximum penalty of life, and (2) for each 3 offences he "was sentenced to imprisonment for two years or more".

History

See also: List of Criminal Code Amendments and Table of Concordance (Criminal Code)

See Also

References