18 U.S.C. § 1363 – Buildings or Property Within Special Maritime and Territorial Jurisdiction
Covers malicious destruction or damage to property located within areas of exclusive federal jurisdiction.
Section 1363 applies to acts of willful and malicious property damage that occur within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States.
This statute reaches conduct involving both real and personal property located in federally controlled areas, such as federal facilities, vessels, aircraft, and other places subject to exclusive or concurrent federal jurisdiction.
Prohibited conduct.
A person violates this statute by knowingly:
- Destroying or injuring a structure, conveyance, or other property
- Attempting to destroy or injure such property
- Conspiring with others to commit property damage
The statute applies regardless of whether the property belongs to the government or a private party, so long as the conduct occurs within the covered federal jurisdiction.
Penalties.
The baseline penalty for a violation of § 1363 includes:
- Up to 5 years in federal prison
- Fines under Title 18
Enhanced penalties.
Higher penalties apply if:
- The damaged building is a dwelling, or
- The conduct places the life of any person in jeopardy
In those circumstances, the offense is punishable by:
- Up to 20 years in federal prison
- Fines under Title 18
If federal property damage charges are being investigated or alleged under special federal jurisdiction, contact our federal criminal defense attorneys to discuss how § 1363 may apply.
