 Non @-@ aggravated offences involving damage valued at less than £ 5 @,@ 000 are triable only summarily by magistrates and the maximum sentence is three months ' imprisonment and a fine of £ 2 @,@ 500 . If the value of the property damaged exceeds £ 5 @,@ 000 , the defendant is entitled to claim trial on indictment by a jury , but if tried summarily , may be sentenced to up to six months in jail and a £ 5 @,@ 000 fine . Where the value of the property is unclear , the court may hear representations as to value , but may also offer the defendant the option of summary trial , with limited penalties . 
