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Property Damage Offenses in Georgia

An experienced attorney who has worked independently out of offices in Georgia's Cherokee, Forsyth, and Cobb counties, E. Michael Vereen represents clients from first consultation through to final court hearings. Among other offenses, E. Michael Vereen represents clients who have been charged with various degrees of property damage.

There are five main types of property damage offenses in Georgia, with the most common being first and second-degree criminal damage to property. The first degree charge carries a sentence of 1-10 years in prison depending on the degree of damage, and whether or not the prosecution can determine if the defendant endangered lives in the process and/or interfered with public utilities. Second degree criminal damage to property is reserved for people who have committed more than $500 worth of damage to personal property, whether by fire or explosive; it carries a potential sentence of 1-5 years in prison.

Other charges include interfering with government property and damaging public utility properties such as meters, wires, or power lines. The penalty for each crime is up to one year in prison. Finally, people convicted of smash and grab theft, such as breaking through windows or doors to steal from retail stores, can face a mandatory two years in prison.

E. Michael Vereen III (770) 345-9449 vereenlaw.com