Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2025

If you notice someone breaking the window of a parked car, what offense has occurred?

1. Theft

2. Mischief

3. Vandalism

4. Assault

The correct answer is: Mischief

The correct choice, mischief, applies because the act of breaking a window is an intentional action that results in the damage of someone else's property. Mischief refers to willfully causing damage or destruction to property, which fits the scenario described, as breaking a window clearly demonstrates an intent to interfere with and harm property. While vandalism is often considered synonymous with mischief and can sometimes refer to similar acts, in a legal context, the term mischief is more specific in outlining the nature of the offense related to property damage. Theft would imply that something is being taken, which is not the case here since the focus is on the act of breaking the window, and assault relates to harm against a person rather than property. Therefore, mischief is the most appropriate term for this offense.