On Feb. 9, federal agents took seven people into custody for allegedly running a drug ring in Georgia. The arrests were made in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Ruling could point to greater protection for mobile phones
For many in Georgia, tips on technological security can be important to protect personal privacy. National news stories about the breaches of data linked to large tech companies or the expansive reach of law enforcement databases may make many concerned about the amount of information they carry on their cell phones or other mobile devices. This is one reason why many experts advise people to rely on passcodes or phrases to unlock their mobile phones rather than many of the newer biometric options like fingerprint recognition, iris unlocking or facial identification software.
Book examines inequality in misdemeanor system
Some people in Georgia assume that facing misdemeanor instead of felony charges means that the consequences of conviction will be relatively light. However, in a book called "Punishment Without Crime," former federal public defender Alexandra Natapoff looks at the high cost of misdemeanor convictions.
Definitions of assault and battery in Georgia
In the state of Georgia, a person can be charged with simple assault, a misdemeanor, without even touching another person. A violent threat is sufficient for a charge of simple assault. Simple battery involves making contact with the other person. The contact must be deliberate and provocative or insulting or must cause harm on purpose. Simple battery is also a misdemeanor.
Rapper Ty Dolla $ign indicted over September drug arrest
In early September, rapper-singer Ty Dolla $ign was arrested on drug charges in Georgia. In early December, prosecutors officially indicted him. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
First Step Act could affect criminal justice reform
Criminal justice reform is a priority for many people in Georgia, especially those dealing with drug convictions or a federal criminal record. Years of criticism about unfairness in the system and its failure to enable re-entry into society have culminated in the new First Step Act. The bill is backed by an odd alliance that includes President Donald Trump alongside longtime criminal justice reform advocates like the ACLU. However, others have criticized the legislation for failing to address serious concerns and others have called it soft on crime.
Violent crimes defense in Georgia
Being accused of a crime can be a frightening experience. If you're facing criminal accusations in Georgia, it's important to mount an aggressive defense so that you might receive a more favorable resolution. Being charged with a violent crime will potentially expose you to a long term of incarceration.
How people may defend against drug charges
When Georgia residents are taken into custody on charges of drug possession, they might choose among several options for their defense. These would broadly fit into the categories of either procedural defense or one that challenges the prosecution's evidence.
