Crimes at Airports and Penalties in Georgia

Crimes at Airports and Penalties in Georgia

Airports are busy places with lots of people coming and going. With so many folks around, sometimes things happen that cross legal lines. This article talks about some common crimes that take place at airports in Georgia and what kinds of penalties people face if convicted.

Weapons Charges

One of the most serious airport crimes is trying to bring weapons through security checkpoints. Georgia has strict laws about carrying guns and other weapons into restricted areas of commercial airports. According to the law O.C.G.A. § 16-11-130.2, it’s illegal to bring weapons past TSA checkpoints or into areas of the airport that don’t allow unscreened passengers[2].

If you get caught carrying a gun or other weapon in the airport, you’ll likely face misdemeanor charges. That means fines up to $1,000 and jail time up to a year[1]. But it gets worse if prosecutors can prove you intended to commit another crime with the weapon. Then it becomes a felony with fines from $1,000-$15,000 and 1-10 years behind bars[2][3].

There are some exceptions – like if you tell TSA you have a weapon and immediately leave the area. But in general, it’s a bad idea to try to sneak guns or knives through airport security. The penalties are steep if you get caught!

Drug Possession

Like most public spots, airports prohibit having illegal drugs. If police find you with marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or other controlled substances at the airport, you could face drug possession charges. This includes having drugs on you past security or leaving them in your car parked at the airport.

Penalties for drug possession depend on the amount, your criminal record, and other factors. But in general, even small amounts can lead to misdemeanor charges. You may have to pay fines up to $1,000 and spend up to a year in jail[4][5]. Larger amounts or repeat offenses often result in felony charges.

It’s important to remember that airports fall under federal jurisdiction too. So you could face both state and federal charges if caught with drugs there. That means even more severe penalties in many cases.

Disorderly Conduct

Airports try to maintain an orderly environment for travelers. So police frequently charge people with disorderly conduct for causing disturbances. This covers things like getting into fights, making too much noise, or refusing to follow lawful orders from security staff.

Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor in Georgia. Typical penalties include fines up to $1,000 plus up to a year in jail. The exact punishment depends on your criminal history and the circumstances of the case[4].

If your actions cause delays or disruptions for airport operations, charges can get bumped up to a felony. So it’s important to keep your cool when traveling through airports!

Theft

With lots of distracted travelers, airports unfortunately see their fair share of thefts. People get charged for stealing luggage, items from shops, valuables from unattended cars, and more. Airport police departments are on alert for thieves looking to take advantage of inattentive travelers.

Like other theft crimes, penalties for stealing at the airport depend on what was taken and its value. Misdemeanor petit theft involves property worth less than $500. Punishments are fines up to $1,000 plus jail time up to a year[4]. Thefts of items worth more result in felony charges.

Keep a close eye on your belongings when traveling through airports. Report any suspicious activity to security staff. And never leave valuables unattended!

Trespassing

Airports have very strict rules about who can access certain areas. If you enter restricted spaces like runways, luggage handling, or airplanes without authorization, you could face trespassing charges. Penalties range from fines to jail time depending on the circumstances.

Sometimes people get charged with trespassing for refusing to leave the airport when ordered to do so by police. These cases often involve disorderly or heavily intoxicated individuals. Airport police will escort you out and possibly place you under arrest if you don’t comply with lawful orders to leave the premises.

Traffic Violations

Airports often have their own internal roadways that connect to public streets and highways. Police enforce traffic laws rigorously in these areas. You can get cited and fined for speeding, reckless driving, DUIs, and other violations on airport property.

In addition to fines, traffic violations at airports can sometimes lead to your vehicle being impounded until your case gets resolved. The last thing you want is having your car towed and being stranded at the airport!

Public Intoxication

It’s illegal to be drunk in public places in Georgia, including airports. Police often arrest intoxicated travelers for public drunkenness if they cause disturbances or seem unable to care for themselves. Penalties typically include fines and possibly short jail stays to sober up[4].

Keep in mind that you can also face public intoxication charges after drinking on an airplane. Getting drunk on a flight and causing problems after landing is a surefire way to start your trip off on the wrong foot!

Terroristic Threats

Due to heightened security concerns, airports have zero tolerance for anything that seems like a terroristic threat. Joking or making inappropriate comments about bombs, hijackings, or other illegal acts could land you in serious trouble.

Even if made in jest, terroristic threats at airports often lead to felony charges. Penalties include hefty fines and years in prison. Don’t make careless comments that could be misinterpreted as threats – airport security staff won’t find it funny.

Prohibited Items

Trying to bring banned items through security checkpoints can also lead to airport trouble. Things like brass knuckles, switchblades, pepper spray, and flares will get confiscated by TSA. You could also face fines or charges for these prohibited items.

Make sure to review TSA rules about restricted items before packing for your flight. Don’t give airport screeners any reason to stop and question you!

Penalties for Airport Crimes

As you can see, Georgia doesn’t mess around when it comes to criminal activity at airports. Charges often get bumped up to felonies compared to similar crimes elsewhere. And even misdemeanors typically result in stiff fines and possible jail time.

Don’t let an airport arrest put your future at risk. These charges can negatively impact your life and livelihood for years to come. If you get accused of a crime at the airport, contact a skilled criminal defense attorney right away. An experienced lawyer can help safeguard your rights and work to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

With crowded conditions and heightened security, it’s easy to accidentally run afoul of the law at airports. But in most cases, a good attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges. Don’t leave your fate in the hands of the justice system without experienced legal representation on your side.