The crimes of car theft and car part theft are somewhat different in nature. There are differences when it comes to charges against an individual who commits either type of crime. There also are differences in the consequences for someone who either steals a car or some car parts. It’s important to note that this will change based on the state.
The Circumstances Dictate the Charges
There are various charges for theft of a car that are based on a few factors. The intent and the consent are at the top of the list. If someone means to take the vehicle for a short while and then return it, they’ll likely still be in trouble, but the charges will be different than if they are found with the car weeks later. This is known as joyriding.
Consent for taking the automobile is crucial because there is no crime involved with using a car when you have gotten permission to do so. If you’re being accused of auto theft, you’ll want to seek the services of one of the best criminal defense lawyers in Philadelphia to ensure that you have a solid defense for your case.
Grand Theft Auto
The charge of grand theft auto is a felony charge. This is under a different crime category in certain states, though in others it’s under the general felony theft statutes. Other terms used in such states include motor vehicle theft, grand theft, and unlawful taking of a vehicle. The case against the individual needs to show that the intent was to deprive the owner of the vehicle permanently and that they didn’t have permission to use it or take over ownership in any way.
Pennsylvania Car Theft
The Pennsylvania theft statute says that when a person takes, transfers, or exercises control over a vehicle that belongs to another person with the intent to keep it without permission, it’s officially theft of a motor vehicle. Even if they take the car out of the parking lot and abandon it elsewhere shortly after, it’s still theft.
Pennsylvania typically classifies thefts based on the property’s value. Motor vehicle thefts in Pennsylvania are punishable according to the nature of the stolen property rather than the value of it. It’s considered to be a felony in the third degree. It has a $15,000 fine and the person responsible may be sentenced to up to seven years in prison. You would benefit from having a dependable criminal defense attorney in Doylestown, PA.
Theft of Car Parts
Car part theft is considered to be a crime, though it’s more difficult to track and prove that someone has committed the crime. In many instances, auto part theft is charged based on the value of the stolen parts. The sale of crucial parts and pieces of automobiles for scrap metal has become a serious offense in recent years. All instances of stolen parts are tallied up to get a total that will determine the fines and sentencing of this crime.
Intent and consent aren’t considerations in a case regarding auto parts theft. Of course, if you have a receipt or bill of sale to show you legally bought the parts or something to show they were given to you, it will work in your favor. If you are found to have sold a large number of parts or have many parts (especially expensive ones) in your possession after being accused and don’t have this proof, you could face steep fines and potential prison time.
Reliable Legal Representation for Car Theft and Car Parts Thefts in Pennsylvania Cases
If you have a motor vehicle or car parts theft case against you, reach out to Brennan Law Offices for legal assistance. You deserve to have a fair hearing of your case and an experienced legal team will help you have that.