1. Criminal Trespass (O.C.G.A. § 16-7-21)

• Willfully damaging property valued at $500 or less
• Entering someone else’s property without permission
• Common in school vandalism or prank cases

Penalty: Misdemeanor; may include probation, restitution, or diversion for first-time offenders

2. Criminal Damage to Property – 2nd Degree (O.C.G.A. § 16-7-23)

• Intentionally damaging property worth more than $500
• Tampering with public utilities, school buildings, vehicles, or storefronts
• Often charged for graffiti, broken windows, or extensive tagging

Penalty: Felony; up to 5 years in custody if adjudicated delinquent or tried as an adult

3. Criminal Damage to Property – 1st Degree (O.C.G.A. § 16-7-22)

• Causing major property destruction, such as:
  • Damaging a house or building with explosives or fire
  • Interfering with safety equipment
  • Damaging property in a way that endangers human life

Penalty: Felony; up to 10 years in prison for adults or extended detention for juveniles

In Georgia, graffiti is not protected speech when it damages property or defaces public or private spaces. Minors can be charged with:

• Criminal trespass or damage
• Possession of graffiti tools or spray paint
• Gang-related tagging (which may lead to enhanced charges)

We defend graffiti cases by:

• Challenging proof of ownership or intent
• Arguing lack of criminal purpose
• Negotiating for community service or restitution instead of formal adjudication

Graffiti may seem like art to teens—but to the law, it’s often treated as a serious crime.