"Criminal Mischief", In Case You Were Curious
Ever wondered what the legal consequences might be for leaving a poppet or other inhibiting spell on someone’s property? Well, the Volusia County police department in Florida is hazarding a guess after a Voodoo doll was found underneath the mailbox of Deltona City Commissioner Zenaida Denizac.
The offending doll in question.
“Denizac said she is troubled by what her husband first thought was trash Saturday. The doll was found directly underneath her mailbox, on a black tray with black powder over it, and what appeared to be a used candle. “How dare people have the audacity of trespassing on my property, and who would do something like this?” Denizac said. “Is this considered a hate crime? I don’t know,” said Brandon Haught, a spokesman with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.”
Few have ventured a guess as to why a poppet was left on her property. One article mentions that she has received (non-threatening) letters critical of her work as commissioner, and she is a high school teacher, which raises the possibility of a teenage prank. Whatever the reason, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Brandon Haught says that they don’t think it is a hate crime, and that any perpetrator, if caught, would most likely face charges of criminal mischief.
Criminal mischief penalties differ from state to state, but usually involves a small fine (so long as the damage is minimal). One could also face up to a year in jail, but that would be rare in a case like this. So if you want to hex and vex a local (or national) politician you disagree with, stay off their property, keep the poppet at home, or bury it somewhere other than their front yard. Remember, it can be hard to practice magic if your broke or in jail.
ADDENDUM: I just want to mention that I don’t endorse negative or harmful spell-work against politicians you disagree with. Engage in such activities at your own risk.
2 responses so far
Considering that poppets are employed for both good and ill, good luck proving intent on that one. Especially with a police force that knows nothing but stereotypes.
–Phae
That addendum reminded me of those ancient days when I used to be a loyal albeit moderate Democrat. I used to try to get people to join in with me in casting a spell on Bush to make him have diarrhea during the debates. And that was the least of it. HaHaHaHa