Vandalism

O.C.G.A. 16-7-21 addresses the charge of vandalism. As written, the law specifically states:

• A person commits the offense of criminal trespass when he or she intentionally damages any property of another without consent of that other person and the damage thereto is $500.00 or less or knowingly and maliciously interferes with the possession or use of the property of another person without consent of that person.
• 
  A person commits the offense of criminal trespass when he or she intentionally defaces, mutilates, or defiles any grave marker, monument, or memorial to one or more deceased persons who served in the military service; or a monument, plaque, marker, or memorial which is dedicated to any past or present military personnel of this state, the U.S. or any of the states thereof, or the Confederate States of America.
• 
  A person commits the offense of criminal damage to property in the first degree when:
• Knowingly and without authority interferes with any property in a manner so as to endanger human life; or
• Knowingly and without authority and by force or violence interferes with the operation of any system of public communication, public transportation, sewerage, drainage, water supply, gas, power, or other public utility service or with any constituent property thereof.
• 
  A person commits the offense of criminal damage to property in the second degree when:
• Intentionally damages any property of another person without his consent and the damage thereto exceeds $500.00; or
• Recklessly or intentionally, by means of fire or explosive, damages property of another person.

Punishments for Vandalism

• Criminal Damage to Property, 1st Degree: Felony crime; 1 to 10 years in prison, plus a fine.
• Criminal Damage to Property, 2nd Degree: Felony crime; 1 to 5 years in prison, plus a fine.
• Criminal Trespass: Misdemeanor crime; up to 1 year in jail, plus fine.

If You've Been Charged with Vandalism

If you are under investigation for, or charged with, arson you need to contact an vandalism defense lawyer. It's easy to set an appointment, meet and discuss your situation and possible outcomes. Give us a call at 678-880-9360 to arrange a consultation.