Ferris Bueller Crimes Under Washington Law

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off may be a classic 1980s teen comedy, but many of Ferris’s antics would raise serious legal issues in Washington State. In this article, we break down the Ferris Bueller crimes under Washington law—including truancy, car theft, vandalism, identity fraud, and more—and explore how each might be charged today.

Skipping School: Truancy and Parental Liability

Ferris fakes illness to skip school, and his parents unknowingly excuse it. In Washington, this falls under RCW 28A.225.010, which requires school attendance for children between 8 and 18. Ferris could be classified as truant, and repeated offenses may result in court involvement. Parents could also be held accountable under RCW 28A.225.020 if they fail to ensure attendance.

Taking the Ferrari: Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle

One of the most iconic moments in the film involves Ferris and his friends “borrowing” Cameron’s father’s 1961 Ferrari 250 GT. In Washington, this could qualify as Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission (TMVWOP) under RCW 9A.56.075, a Class C felony.

Even if there was no intent to permanently deprive the owner, unauthorized use of the vehicle—especially without the owner’s knowledge—meets the statutory requirements for criminal charges.

Vandalism: Property Damage to the Ferrari

After joyriding around Chicago, the Ferrari suffers catastrophic damage. In Washington, this would be malicious mischief, which can range from a gross misdemeanor to a Class B felony depending on the value of the damage under RCW 9A.48.070. With a Ferrari’s value exceeding $5,000, this could be charged as First Degree Malicious Mischief.

Impersonating a Parent: Identity Fraud and Deception

In order to free Sloane from school, Ferris impersonates her father over the phone. While played for laughs, this could be prosecuted under Washington’s criminal impersonation law, RCW 9A.60.040, especially if the impersonation results in tangible outcomes, such as releasing someone from a public institution.

Public Mischief: Obstruction and Disorderly Conduct

Throughout the day, Ferris manipulates others, fakes calls, misuses phones, and misleads authority figures. Under Washington law, these acts may qualify as Obstructing a Public Servant under RCW 9A.76.020 or Disorderly Conductif they cause public disruption.

Would Ferris Be Prosecuted in Washington?

While Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is meant to be comedic, many of Ferris’s actions would trigger real legal consequences if they occurred in Washington today. From truancy laws to felony vehicle offenses, Ferris Bueller crimes under Washington law could have resulted in:

Juvenile court for truancy
Felony charges for car theft and vandalism
Misdemeanor charges for impersonation and obstruction

Still, the prosecution of these offenses would depend on context, intent, and whether the acts were reported.

Internal Resources

Analyzing the Crimes in The Goonies Under Washington Law
A Few Good Men – Legal Ethics in Washington
Can a Juvenile Be Tried as an Adult in Washington?

External References

RCW 9A.48.070 – Malicious Mischief in the First Degreerefree day off.

RCW 28A.225 – Washington Truancy Laws

RCW 9A.56.075 – Motor Vehicle Theft

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