What defines criminal damage to property in Georgia?

The definition of criminal damage to property in Georgia is grounded in the principle that it involves intentionally causing damage to someone else's property without obtaining their consent. This intentionally deliberate act, regardless of the monetary value of the damage, constitutes a violation of the law. By focusing on the intent and the lack of consent, the law aims to protect property rights and uphold the principle that individuals should not damage the property of others.

The elements of criminal damage are centered around the intention behind the action, distinguishing it from accidental damage, which does not meet the threshold for criminal charges. The other options describe situations that either involve consent, a specific monetary threshold, or accidents, none of which fulfill the criteria for criminal damage as outlined in Georgia law. Therefore, the understanding that criminal damage is tied to intentional actions without consent is what establishes option A as the correct definition.