Business owners in Albany are raising concerns over the rise in property crimes in the area. Dougherty County District Attorney Greg Edwards is addressing these concerns and notes that some of the crimes businesses are experiencing more frequently include burglary and damage to property.
One contributing factor to this increase in crime may be a policy implemented at the magistrate court level, which allows individuals arrested for misdemeanor offenses, particularly theft, to be reconsidered for release on their own recognizance (OR) if they are unable to make bond and remain in jail for 10 days. Edwards emphasizes the importance of prevention in order to protect businesses in the area.
The District Attorney stresses the need for business owners and victims to speak out and inform the court about the impact these crimes have on their interests. Edwards has received complaints about this issue from both the east and west sides of Albany, and he is concerned that if the situation continues, businesses may not want to remain in the area.
Edwards is calling on business owners to take action by speaking out about their concerns and advocating for stronger penalties for those arrested for property crimes. He also encourages victims of property crimes to come forward and report any incidents so that they can be properly investigated and prosecuted.
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