Difference Between Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia

Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia sound the same, but they are very different crimes.  Read the post below for information on the difference between Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia.

Difference Between Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia

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 property.

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 temporarily deprive another person of possession or control.

One Difference Between Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia is the Intent of the Offender

Difference Between Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia: Force or Violence

Grand Theft Auto in Virginia is stealing a car, and Carjacking in Virginia is stealing a car by using force or violence.

Difference Between Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia: Intent

Grand Theft Auto in Virginia requires intent to permanently deprive an owner of his property, but Carjacking can be proven with intent to permanently or even temporarily deprive another person of possession or control of a motor vehicle.

Difference Between Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia: Penalties

Grand Theft Auto in Virginia is punished with up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. Carjacking, on the other hand, is punished with 15 years up to LIFE in prison.