Grand Theft Auto / Motor Vehicle Theft

Grand theft auto is a theft crime which is often charged as a felony. This involves the willful theft of a motor vehicle with the intention of depriving the vehicle owner of the car, truck, motorcycle or other vehicle. A grand theft auto charge does not involve violence or threats, as this would constitute a carjacking charge (a form of robbery, involving the forceful theft of a vehicle.) An attempt to commit motor vehicle theft may also result in criminal charges, even if the attempt is unsuccessful.

Grand theft auto is a serious criminal offense which may result in jail time, a state prison sentence, probation, fines and other penalties - depending upon the state and the particular circumstances surrounding the offense. A defendant's criminal record, the value of the vehicle allegedly stolen and a number of other factors may influence sentencing.

How is grand theft auto committed?

Motor vehicle theft may be committed in a number of different ways. Theft may be committed with or without access to keys. Without access to the vehicle's keys, the offender may hotwire the car or may otherwise tamper with the vehicle to get it to start. Towing may be another method of obtaining a vehicle without the keys. If the offender has the keys, theft is typically much easier. These particular offenses may involve the "unauthorized use of a vehicle", committed by a person who knows or is even related to the owner of the vehicle. A teenager may drive off with a parent or other family member's car, without their permission. An employee may take a company vehicle without authority.

Opportunity is a key issue in cases involving auto theft. For example, a vehicle left unattended, even for a minute or two, may be a primary target. The owner may leave the vehicle running or may leave the keys in the vehicle, making it easy for a thief to simply get in the car and drive away.

Fraud may also be used to commit grand theft auto, though this is a less common version of the offense.

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