A Big Win for Defendants in Gang Cases

The case, State v. Render (A25A1462), answered a hotly contested issue: whether the State can bring in evidence of a completely separate shooting — committed by people who were not on trial — to prove that a gang exists.

The trial court said no, and the Court of Appeals agreed. This decision reinforces a critical principle: guilt must be personal — not by association.

State v. Render is a big step toward restoring fairness in Georgia’s gang trials. It limits the use of unrelated gang evidence and ensures the focus stays where it belongs: on what the defendant actually did.

Why This Ruling Matters

The ruling helps ensure that:

• Defendants are judged based on their own conduct — not the actions of others.
• Trials remain fair and focused, not driven by prejudice or unrelated violence.

• The government cannot bring in every violent crime ever committed by anyone allegedly tied to a gang.
• Courts are willing to protect the fairness of trials and the rights of defendants even in emotionally charged gang cases.

What This Means for People Facing Gang Charges in Georgia

If you’re facing gang-related charges or want to understand your rights under Georgia law, contact W. Scott Smith, PC. The law is complex, but your rights are clear and worth fighting for.