What type of damage constitutes criminal mischief in the first degree?

Criminal mischief in the first degree is typically defined as the intentional destruction of property through means that pose a significant risk of harm to others, such as by using explosives. This form of criminal mischief demonstrates a clear intention to cause serious damage, and the use of an explosion indicates a high degree of recklessness and potential for widespread harm, fulfilling the legal criterion for first-degree charges.

In contrast, damage to personal property under a certain monetary threshold, like $2500, does not generally reach the severity required for first-degree criminal mischief. Theft-related damage, while unlawful, is categorized under different criminal statutes specifically addressing theft rather than property damage. Negligent damage does not involve intentional acts and is typically classified under civil liabilities rather than criminal charges. Thus, the choice involving intentional damage by explosion is the only option that meets the criteria for first-degree criminal mischief.