Frequent Crimes and Penalties in Savannah, GA

Frequent Crimes and Penalties in Savannah, GA

Living in Savannah can be a great experience with its historic districts, parks, and beaches. But like any city, Savannah does have its share of crime. This article will go over some of the most frequent crimes committed in Savannah and what the penalties typically are if convicted.

Assault and Battery

Assault and battery charges are pretty common in Savannah. An assault charge means you threatened someone with violence. Battery means you actually committed violence against someone – like punching or kicking them. Penalties can include:

• Misdemeanor – up to 12 months in jail and/or up to $1000 fine
• Felony – 1 to 20 years in prison

If a weapon was used or the victim was seriously injured, charges will likely be more severe. For example, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon can result in 3 to 20 years in prison [4].

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence involves violence against a spouse, family member, or romantic partner. Police take domestic violence very seriously in Savannah. Even a misdemeanor assault can become a felony if against someone you have a relationship with. Penalties include:

• Misdemeanor – up to 1 year in jail and/or $1000 fine
• Felony – 1 to 5 years in prison

You may also lose custody or visitation rights with children. Having a domestic violence conviction on your record can also impact future job opportunities [1].

Theft

Theft, or larceny, is taking someone else’s property without permission. Penalties depend on the value of what was stolen:

• Under $1500 – misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail and/or $1000 fine
• $1500 to $25,000 – felony with 1 to 10 years in prison
• Over $25,000 – felony with 2 to 20 years in prison

Theft can also become a felony if the stolen item was government property, a grave marker, or anhydrous ammonia [6].

Burglary

Burglary is illegally entering a building with the intent to commit a crime inside (usually theft). Like theft, penalties depend on circumstances:

• Misdemeanor – up to 12 months in jail and/or $1000 fine
• Felony – 1 to 20 years in prison

If a weapon was used or there was injury to a victim, penalties will be harsher. Many factors affect the sentence, so having an experienced criminal defense attorney is important if charged with burglary.

DUI

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is taken very seriously in Savannah and throughout Georgia. For a first offense:

• Up to 12 months in jail
• Fine up to $1000
• License suspension

Penalties quickly escalate for repeat offenders. Having a blood alcohol content higher than 0.08% automatically leads to a DUI charge in Georgia. An experienced DUI defense lawyer can often get charges reduced or dismissed.

Resisting Arrest

While getting arrested can be scary, fighting back against police will likely just make matters worse. Resisting arrest or obstruction of an officer are misdemeanors in Georgia, with penalties of:

• Up to 12 months in jail
• Up to $5000 fine

Any injuries caused to officers during resisting arrest can also lead to felony charges. It’s usually best to comply with officer instructions and let your lawyer fight the charges later on.

Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct is a catch-all charge police use for public disturbances. This includes public intoxication, excessive noise, obscene gestures, fighting, etc. Penalties are a misdemeanor with:

• Up to 12 months in jail
• Up to $1000 fine

While penalties aren’t as severe as many felonies, having a disorderly conduct conviction on your record can still negatively impact job opportunities and travel visas.

Probation Violations

If you are on probation in Georgia and violate the terms, judges take this very seriously. Probation violations can result in all or part of your original sentence being reinstated. Common violations include:

• Failed drug/alcohol test
• Failed to report to probation officer
• Leaving state without permission
• Associating with known criminals
• Committing a new crime

An experienced criminal defense lawyer may be able to negotiate with prosecutors to avoid probation revocation.

What To Do If Arrested in Savannah

Being arrested can be scary and overwhelming. However, following a few key steps can help ensure the best outcome in your case:

1. Remain silent – Do not admit anything or try to explain yourself to police.
2. Hire a lawyer – An experienced criminal defense attorney can protect your rights.
3. Don’t violate bail – Make all court appearances and follow bail conditions.
4. Avoid social media – Do not discuss case details publicly online.
5. Be patient – Criminal cases can take many months to resolve.

With an experienced lawyer guiding you through the process, even serious criminal charges can often result in reduced or dismissed charges.