Summerville Resident Reports Vehicle Keyed While Away From Home

A Summerville man reported that his vehicle was intentionally damaged while it was parked outside his apartment, according to a report from the Summerville Police Department.

Police responded to 50 Saratoga Way, Apartment A20, at approximately 8:19 p.m. on June 29 after Garry Lovingood, 63, requested to file a report about his vehicle being keyed.

According to the incident report, Lovingood told Officer J. Pledger he discovered the damage after returning from out of town and believes it occurred while his 2011 white Nissan Murano was parked in the apartment complex parking lot. He said he did not know who may have been responsible and declined to identify any possible suspects because he was uncertain.

Officer Pledger documented the damage, photographed the vehicle, and noted in the report that the scratch appeared to be fresh. Police also advised Lovingood that officers would conduct extra patrols in the area.

The incident was documented as non-criminal damage to a vehicle, and no suspects have been identified.

New Georgia Law Allows Property Owners To Sue Over Public Nuisance Enforcement

A new Georgia law taking effect July 1st will allow property owners to seek compensation if they believe local governments are not doing enough to enforce public nuisance laws.

House Bill 295 applies to issues such as public camping, vandalism, and panhandling. Supporters say the law is designed to push cities and counties to enforce existing ordinances when public nuisance activity hurts businesses, property values, or public safety.

State Representative Jesse Petrea, who co-sponsored the bill, said some business owners have complained about losing customers and property value when people feel unsafe near encampments or panhandling areas.

However, critics worry the law could have a negative impact on people experiencing homelessness. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said public spaces should remain open to everyone as long as people are not creating a nuisance.

Property owners who file claims will have to prove that nuisance behavior caused financial loss and that local government willfully failed to enforce the law.

House Bill 295 became law on May 12th and is scheduled to take effect July 1st.