Misdemeanor crimes consist of any crime punishable by a maximum of one year
in jail or less. The Solicitor’s Office prosecuted more than 8,000
misdemeanor cases in 2005.
Misdemeanors include crimes against persons, for example; domestic violence,
battery, simple battery, simple assault, and stalking. Misdemeanors may also
include property crimes, for example; criminal trespass, criminal damage to
property (less than $500), theft by taking (less than $500) and theft by shoplifting
(less than $300). Traffic violations bound over from Recorder’s or Municipal
Courts for jury trials may also be prosecuted in State Court, including, but
not limited to; driving under the influence, reckless driving, fleeing and
attempting to elude, hit and run, and any other moving, tag, or license violations.
In addition, the Solicitor’s Office operates a State certified Crime
Victim Assistance Program (VAP). Our VAP goals are to provide the highest quality
services to crime victims, ensuring that they are informed of their rights
under the Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights, assisting victims with obtaining
Temporary Protective Orders, advising victims of resources available for other
assistance, and assisting with victim compensation for injuries and expenses
caused as the result of a crime. Our VAP program also operates several community
education programs, including:
- A DUI Victim Impact Panel (VIP) to educate DUI offenders of the real
effects of driving impaired.
- Hands Are Not For Hitting, an interactive puppet show
presented in partnership with the Gwinnett Retired Educators Association
to teach young children non-violent
conflict resolution skills.
- Turning Point, a confidential educational support group
for persons experiencing domestic violence led by a qualified professional
counselor and offered free
of charge.
- A comprehensive Resource Guide for crime victims including
safety planning and lethality assessments.
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