New law sets new minimum sentencing guidelines
ALBANY, GA -- It’s too early to tell if a new law aimed at curbing the rise in smash and grab burglaries is having any effect but law enforcement is hopeful.
The law went into effect in July.
It lengthened the amount of time juveniles can spend in custody to five years for smash and grab burglaries causing at least $500 in damages.
Adults that solicit juveniles to commit the crime will now serve between one and five years in prison with a minimum of two years for adults who actually participate.
Because of the unique nature of smash and grabs, law enforcement officials say they can use all the help they can get.
"The smash and grab crime is a little more difficult to solve," said Captain Craig Dodd of the Dougherty County Sheriff's Office. "Therefore, when we do catch them, the harsher the sentence or the stiffer the sentence, the better."
Examples of commonly stolen items in smash and grab burglaries include flat screen televisions, cigarettes, clothing, and ATM's.
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