Section 48-5-51. Fraudulent claim of homestead exemption under Code Sections 48-5-44 through 48-5-50; penalty

   (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to:

   (1) Make any false or fraudulent claim for exemption under Code Sections 48-5-44 through 48-5-50;

   (2) Make any false statement or false representation of a material fact in support of a claim for exemption under Code Sections 48-5-44 through 48-5-50; or

   (3) Assist another knowingly in the preparation of any false or fraudulent claim for exemption under Code Sections 48-5-44 through 48-5-50, or enter into any collusion with another by the execution of a fictitious deed, deed of trust, mortgage, or otherwise.

(b) Any person who violates this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. In addition, the property shall be taxed in an amount double the tax otherwise to be paid.

Ga. L. 1937-38, Ex. Sess., p. 145, § 11; Code 1933, § 91A-9906, enacted by Ga. L. 1978, p. 309, § 2.