Joyriding or auto theft? Misdemeanor or felony charges?

Under section 35-43-4-2.5 of the Indiana Code, an individual who intentionally or knowingly exerts unauthorized control over the vehicle of another individual, with the intent to deprive the owner of the vehicle's use or value or of a component part is guilty of auto theft.

This is an example of class d felony Indiana.  If the person has a prior conviction of an offense under this section, the offense is a class C felony, which carries a higher penalty.  Also, an individual who intentionally or knowingly disposes of, keeps, or receives a motor vehicle or any part of a vehicle that was stolen is guilty of receiving stolen auto parts, which is also a class D felony.  Similarly, if the individual has a prior conviction under this section, the offense becomes a class C felony, which carries a higher penalty.