Property Crimes
A property crime is a criminal act in which the offender steals or takes the victim’s personal property. Property crimes are also defined as criminal acts involving the destruction of a person’s personal property. Most property crimes are not violent and do not involve the use of a weapon. In Georgia, commonly committed property crimes include: burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft, larceny, shoplifting, vandalism, and arson. If a person is found guilty of committing a property crime, he/she may be sentenced with:
- jail time
- fines
- probation
- community service
- house arrest
- restitution
If the offender used a weapon while committing the property crime, caused extensive damage to the property, caused the victim bodily injury, or if he/she has a prior criminal record, his/her legal penalties may be enhanced by the Georgia courts. Additionally, the person will have a negative mark on his/her criminal record, which can lead to a lack of future job, housing, and education opportunities.
Have You Been Charged With A Property Crime In Georgia?
If you answered yes to this question, it is important that you speak with a reliable criminal defense attorney immediately. Due to the long-term impact and severity of the legal consequences involved, you need to do everything you can to avoid a property crime conviction. The best thing you can do to fight your criminal charges and reduce your chances of being convicted is to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
