There has been a sudden spike in crime across multiple Atlanta neighborhoods in recent months. For example, police were actively chasing and investigating a string of burglary crimes in Buckhead that resulted in numerous arrests. Police also found multiple stolen guns in the suspects’ car. According to the Atlanta Police Department, car break-ins were up in Buckhead by 34% compared to last year’s statistics. Car thefts themselves are also up 21% in Buckhead.
Northwest Atlanta, Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead have all seen spikes in crime in recent months. Car break-ins are up 21-28% in these areas in the last week in January. During this time, however, break-in crimes have gone down in southeast and southwest Atlanta. Government and safety officials are concerned about the spike in crime and have discussed holding town safety meetings as a first step towards figuring out a solution.
Break-In Crimes are Serious Offenses
Breaking into a car is typically considered a burglary crime. In Georgia, burglary is defined as the breaking and entering into any structure with the intent to commit a felony, such as theft. These are serious offenses and can result in severe consequences and penalties. The severity of the penalties depends largely on the degree of burglary you are accused of.
- First Degree Burglary – this is the breaking and entering into a dwelling, such as a home, with the intent to commit a felony. This is a felony offense that is punishable by one to twenty years in prison.
- Second Degree Burglary – this is the breaking and entering into a structure or a vehicle with the intent to commit a felony offense. This is a felony offense and punishable by one to eight years in prison.
To be convicted of burglary, the prosecution must prove that you intended to commit a crime and that you broke into a place and entered it with that intent. Already being in an establishment and committing a crime would not be burglary but would be theft or some other type of property crime.
In the State of Georgia, defense attorneys are often able to seek an alternative sentence option for first time burglary offenders. This can include partial sentencing where you may be on a work release program, house arrest, or on a weekend sentencing program. The goal is to try to reform burglary offenders in an attempt to reduce the overall crime in the area.
Have You Been Arrested and Charged with a Crime?
Have you been arrested and charged with a crime in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Marietta, or anywhere in the state of Georgia? If so, it is important to know that you are not alone. Your future and your freedom depends on your ability to build a solid defense against these serious charges. That’s why it is important to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. At Schnipper Law, P.C., our Atlanta criminal defense attorneys will fight aggressively to protect you and your freedom during the legal process. Call Schnipper Law P.C., at (404) 545-5845 for a free initial consultation and review of your case.
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