Dalton man sentenced for theft under “three-strike” law

DALTON, Ga. (WDEF) — A Dalton man will spend five years in prison after committing a theft and violating Georgia’s “three-strike” law.

Superior Court Judge Jack Partain sentenced Steven Tremayne Chaney to five years in prison without parole on November 13.

Steven Chaney / Whitfield County

Chaney was convicted of theft for having a stolen vehicle and driving on a suspended license, according to Whitfield County officials.

The “three-strike” law states that anyone with three prior felony convictions will not receive any parole on their fourth felony conviction.

Dalton police officers said they found Chaney driving a stolen vehicle in July 2022.

Investigators also said Chaney knew the vehicle was stolen. But he claimed he purchased the vehicle for $500.

However, authorities said the vehicle was worth $5,000. And Chaney did not have a title or bill of sale. The vehicle also still had a dealer tag and floor mat protectors from the dealership, according to Dalton police.

In the past, Chaney was convicted of possession of meth in 2017 and 2007. Whitfield County officials stated that he was also convicted of possession of meth with intent to distribute in 2015. All prior felonies took place in Whitfield County as well.