Local Duluth Man Arrested for Computer Trespass

Gwinnett County Courthouse

Duluth, Ga. – A man has been arrested in Duluth on some very strange charges. He has been accused of being at the center of a case involving a former judge and district attorney. He has been accused of computer trespass.

Not many details have been released regarding this case. However, as a Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer, I will outline the law behind the offense of computer trespass.

Computer Trespass in Georgia

O.C.G.A. §16-9-93(b) defines computer trespass in Georgia as:

A person will be guilty of computer trespass when they use a computer or computer network with knowledge that such use is without authority with the intention of:

• Deleting or in any way removing, either temporarily or permanently, any computer program or data from a computer or computer network;
• Obstructing, interrupting, or in any way interfering with the use of a computer program or data; or
• Altering, damaging, or in any way causing the malfunction of a computer, computer network, or computer program, regardless of how long the alteration, damage, or malfunction persists.

A person convicted of computer trespass will receive a fine up to $50,000, up to 15 years in prison, or both. It is treated as a felony conviction. However, if a person or property was injured because of the computer trespass, the victim may sue to recover any damages sustained and the cost of the lawsuit. Damages can include loss of profits and any expense the victim had to pay because of the trespass. However, the amount of restitution ordered cannot exceed the damage done to the victim.

Practice Note

If you have been arrested for a criminal offense in the state of Georgia, you need to call our offices now. We can help you with your case no matter the charge. Call now.