Georgia § 16-7-2 - Smash and grab burglary; "retail establishment" defined; penalty.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-7-2 — Smash and grab burglary; "retail establishment" defined; penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-7-2. Smash and grab burglary; "retail establishment" defined; penalty.
As used in this Code section, the term "retail establishment" means an establishment that sells goods or merchandise from a fixed location for direct consumption by a purchaser and includes establishments that prepare and sell meals or other edible products either for carry out or service within the establishment. A person commits the offense of smash and grab burglary when he or she intentionally and without authority enters a retail establishment with the intent to commit a theft and causes damage in excess of $500.00 to such establishment without the owner's consent. A person convicted of smash and grab burglary shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than two nor more than 20 years, by a fine of not more than $100,000.00, or both; provided, however, that upon a second or subsequent conviction, he or she shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than five nor more than 20 years, by a fine of not more than $100,000.00, or both. (Code 1981, § 16-7-2 , enacted by Ga. L. 2010, p. 1147, § 6/HB 1104.)
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 16-7-2
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-7-2 cover?
Section 16-7-2 ("Smash and grab burglary; "retail establishment" defined; penalty.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 16-7-2?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-7-2" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 16-7-2 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.