Georgia Vandalism Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 20, 2018
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
The spraypainted mural of the late musician Prince masterfully rendered on what used to be a billboard for a nearby fast food joint is no doubt a welcome site for many a passing motorist. But in the eyes of the law, even the most accomplished street art is no different than any other act of vandalism; and it can lead to felony charges in Georgia if the cost of the damage exceeds just $500.
Georgia Vandalism Laws at a Glance
Georgia law identifies two separate crimes that typically would be considered "vandalism" -- criminal trespass and criminal damage to property, the latter being the felony offense. State law also specifically prohibits vandalism of any grave marker of, or memorial to, a military service member. Additional details can be found in the following chart.
Statutes |
Georgia Code § 16-7-21, et seq. |
Statutory Definition of Criminal Trespass |
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. |
Statutory Definition of Criminal Damage to Property |
A person commits the offense of criminal damage to property in the first degree when he:
A person commits the offense of criminal damage to property in the second degree when he:
|
Crime Classifications, Sentences, and Penalties |
Criminal Damage to Property, 1st Degree: Felony; 1 to 10 yrs. in prison, plus fine. Criminal Damage to Property, 2nd Degree: Felony; 1 to 5 yrs. in prison, plus fine. Criminal Trespass: Misdemeanor; up to 1 yr. in jail, plus fine. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change, usually through the enactment of new legislation but also through court decisions and other means. Contact a Georgia criminal defense attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
Georgia Vandalism Laws: Related Resources
- Georgia Criminal Statute of Limitations
- Theft Penalties and Sentencing
- Arson
- Restitution (Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles)
Charged with Vandalism? Get Legal Help Today
Whether it was a true artistic expression or just an attempt to make a scene, it's still vandalism if you've defaced another's property. Make sure you understand your rights and possible defenses by speaking with a defense attorney, who can apply their expert knowledge of the law to the facts of your case. Get started today by contacting a Georgia criminal defense attorney.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Georgia attorneys offer free consultations.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life
Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.