Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What crime is committed by throwing a brick through a window of an occupied home?

1. Type I violation of "Discharge of a firearm"

2. Class A vandalism

3. Type II violation of "Discharge of a firearm inside or at an occupied dwelling"

4. Class 1 misdemeanor

The correct answer is: Type II violation of "Discharge of a firearm inside or at an occupied dwelling"

The act of throwing a brick through a window of an occupied home constitutes a Type II violation of "Discharge of a firearm inside or at an occupied dwelling" because it involves a dangerous object being aimed at a residence where individuals are present. Although a brick is not a firearm, the underlying principle is that the action poses a significant threat to the safety of the occupants within the home, akin to the hazards associated with firearm discharge. This type of violation emphasizes the recklessness of endangering lives in occupied spaces, drawing parallels to actions that can result in serious harm or death. The illegal conduct is not only about the damage to property (vandalism) but also the potential for physical injury or psychological terror inflicted on the residents. The distinction here lies in the severity of endangerment posed to people inside the dwelling during the act. By focusing on the potential harm to individuals, the correct classification aligns with laws designed to address threats to life and safety in maintaining public order.