Overview Articles
Overview Articles
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Stealing an automobile or other vehicle is a felony in most states, and may be punished by imprisonment.
Questions & Answers
Questions & Answers
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What Is the Difference Between Joyriding and Stealing a Car?
Joyriding involves taking a car without permission and without intending to keep it. In contrast, a person who steals a car (grand theft auto) does not intend to return it to the owner.
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What Is the Punishment for Joyriding?
States differ widely on punishments for joyriding. Some states consider joyriding as a less serious offense than theft, while others punish it the same as vehicle theft. A joyrider could be looking at probation, jail time, or even prison.
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Can a Passenger in a Stolen Car be Convicted of a Crime?
Merely riding in a stolen car, without more, cannot result in a criminal conviction. However, a person who rides in a stolen car knowing that the car has been stolen (or under circumstances where the passenger should have known that the car was stolen) could be convicted of a crime, as can any person
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California has two different statutes that criminalize auto theft. The biggest difference is whether the defendant intends to take the car temporarily or permanently. Each crime may be punished as a misdemeanor or a felony.