Aggravated Assault In Cobb County Shooting
These days it seems like you can wake up every day to a new story of a tragic shooting. Recently, tragedy struck close to home in Cobb County where a gunman, in an aggravated assault, killed two men.
Shooting In Cobb County Apartment
The shooting took place on May 25 at the Cobblestone Apartment Homes in Cobb County, Georgia. Police responded to several reports of gunshots and arrived at the scene to find two young men, John Ogundipe and Alex White, suffering from gunshot wounds in a blue Honda outside the apartment building. One died at the scene and the other was pronounced dead after being transferred to a local hospital.
With the help of descriptions from witnesses, the police were able to find and arrest the gunman, 20-year-old Jeffery Smith-Hosty of Marietta, a few blocks away. Smith-Hosty was taken to the County Detention Center where he is being held on charges of felony murder, aggravated assault, and armed robbery.
Understanding Aggravated Assault
Finding the strength to deal with the legal implications of aggravated assault, especially in circumstances where the assault led to a death, can be difficult. However, there are legal repercussions that can help victims of aggravated assault receive compensation for their suffering.
In contrast to simple assault, which is simply attempting to cause physical injury to another person, aggravated assault is a far more serious crime. Georgia law §16-5-21 defines and specifies punishment for aggravated assault in the state. Any assault is classified as aggravated under the law if:
- There was an intent to rob, rape, or murder;
- The perpetrator used a deadly weapon or other object that could cause severe bodily injury or strangulation; or
- A firearm was discharged from a vehicle.
Committing aggravated assault in Georgia is a considered a felony and has serious penalties that vary based on the nature of the crime. Prison terms are from one to twenty years, with a three year minimum if the assault involved a firearm being discharged from a vehicle, plus twenty years probation. In addition, the convicted person may be fined up to $100,000 and have to make some form of restitution to the victim.
Compensation Available To Victims of Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault can lead to serious injuries and long-term emotional distress. The Georgia Crime Victims Bill of Rights gives victims the right to reimbursement from expenses which resulted from the crime, including medical treatment and counseling.
Filing A Lawsuit For Aggravated Assault?
While it is easy for most of us to agree that victims of aggravated assault deserve some form of compensation, it is often not the priority of busy local police departments. Pursuing legal matters in cases involving aggravated assault can get swept aside quickly for lack of clear and convincing evidence. If you or a loved one has been the victim of aggravated assault, it’s crucial that you speak to an experienced aggravated assault attorney who can help. For cases in Marietta, Cobb County, and greater Georgia, contact Williams Elleby Howard & Easter. With years of experience and a commitment to seeking justice, we’ll make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
