Theft charges can lead to severe consequences in Georgia, regardless of a person’s age or circumstances. For younger people, these allegations can cause lifelong problems. Not only will it have an impact on their immediate future with school and entering the workforce, but it can hover over them for the rest of their lives. For those under 18 years of age or who have just turned 18-years-old, it is imperative to consider the future and attempt to avoid the harshest penalties when an arrest is made for theft and other criminal acts.
According to recent reports, two teens, ages 17 and 18, are facing multiple theft charges after a police pursuit and an arrest. In Forsyth County, there has been a problem with car theft and other items being stolen and law enforcement was vigilant about suspicious behavior. The incident began at around 3:30 a.m. when law enforcement spotted two vehicles following one another. One, a 2018 Mercedes GLC and the other, a 2016 Ford Explorer, fled as a law enforcement vehicle got behind them. Other cruisers were stationed nearby and they pursued. The Ford was stopped in one location. The Mercedes was stopped when it ran over a spike strip not far away from the Ford.
There was a teen in each vehicle and they allegedly fled on foot. They were found and placed under arrest. Officers discovered that both vehicles had reportedly been stolen from the nearby area. There was also, allegedly, a stolen gun found. It is believed to have been dropped by the 17-year-old. A Hyundai Sonata that officers think the teens drove to get to the area was also found to have been stolen. The teens were charged with various levels of theft, including felonies.
Theft charges are difficult enough, but when teens are dealing with the charges they must be cognizant of the problems they can face if they are convicted. In many instances, there is hope for rehabilitation and the harshest punishments will not be necessary nor desirable. Those who are charged with theft will need to carefully consider their legal options.
