Infant Allegedly Kidnapped by Biological Father in Henry County

A baby was reported abducted on Sunday in Henry County. The report is known as a Levi's Call which is Georgia's title for an alert for kidnapping or child abduction. It's a part of the AMBER Alert that is facilitated across the country. 

The infant was reportedly abducted by his biological father, Mika Gilchrist. So far the child has been found safe, and Gilchrist has been arrested and transported back to Henry County.

No charges have been reported yet.

As a Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer, I can guess that Gilchrist will most likely be charged with kidnapping, so I will outline that offense in today's post.

Kidnapping in Georgia

Kidnapping in Georgia is defined by the Georgia Code as:

A person commits the offense of kidnapping when such person abducts or steals away another person without lawful authority or warrant and holds such other person against his or her will. O.C.G.A. §16-5-40.

A conviction for kidnapping is classified as a felony conviction. The penalties for kidnapping a victim who is 14 years or older include a prison term between ten and twenty years. However, if the victim is under 14 years old, then the penalty is elevated to either a life sentence or a prison term between twenty years but less than life with probation for life after getting out of prison. Furthermore, a suspect will receive life in prison or the death penalty if the kidnapping was for ransom or if the victim received bodily injury.

Practice Note

When someone gets arrested, it usually one of the worst days of their life. A felony is a seriously scary charge to face. Georgia Felony Punishments are life-altering. 

If you or a loved one is facing a serious arrest in Georgia, contact a Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney today.