Difference Between Carjacking and Grand Theft Auto in Virginia
July 28, 2018 by Jean Humbrecht
Carjacking (Va. Code §18.2-58.1) and Grand Theft Auto in Virginia (Va. Code §18.2-95) sound the same, but in fact they are very different. This post discusses the difference between Carjacking and Grand Theft Auto in Virginia.
Difference Between Carjacking and Grand Theft Auto in Virginia
Carjacking in Virginia is the intentional seizure of a motor vehicle or seizure of control of a motor vehicle by force or violence with the intent to permanently or even temporarily deprive another person of possession or control of a motor vehicle.
Grand Theft Auto in Virginia is the unauthorized taking of another person’s motor vehicle with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of his motor vehicle.
One Difference Between Carjacking and Grand Theft Auto in Virgina is the Penalty
Difference Between Carjacking and Grand Theft Auto in Virginia: Use of Force
A Virginia Carjacking charge requires proof that the offender used force or violence to obtain possession or control of a motor vehicle, but an offender does not need to use any force or violence to be convicted of a Virginia Grand Theft Auto charge.
Difference Between Carjacking and Grand Theft Auto in Virginia: Intent
A Carjacking conviction in Virginia requires proof of an intent to permanently or even temporarily deprive another person of possession or control of a motor vehicle. However, a Grand Theft Auto charge in Virginia requires proof that the offender intended to permanently deprive the owner of his motor vehicle.
Difference Between Carjacking and Grand Theft Auto in Virginia: Penalty
A Carjacking charge in Virginia is punished with 15 years up to life in prison, and a Grand Theft Auto charge in Virginia can be punished with up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500.