Difference Between Robbery and Carjacking in Virginia
July 16, 2017 by Jean Humbrecht
Robbery (Va. Code §18.2-58) and Carjacking (Va. Code §18.2-58.1) in Virginia are often used interchangeably. However, these crimes have important differences. For information on the difference between Robbery and Carjacking in Virginia, read the post below.
Difference Between Robbery and Carjacking in Virginia
A Virginia Robbery is taking personal property from a person or his presence by using force or violence and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of his property. Click here for more information on Robbery in Virginia.
Carjacking in Virginia is the intentional seizure of a motor vehicle or seizure of control of a motor vehicle of another by violence with intent to permanently or temporarily deprive another person of possession or control of the motor vehicle. Click here for more information on Carjacking in Virginia.
Difference Between Robbery and Carjacking in Virginia: Intent of Offender
One Main Difference Between Robbery and Carjacking in Virginia is the Penalty
To convict an offender of Robbery in Virginia, the Commonwealth must prove that the offender intended to permanently deprive an owner of his property. Carjacking, however, can be proven by showing an intent to permanently or even temporarily deprive another person of possession or control of a vehicle.
Difference Between Robbery and Carjacking in Virginia: Type of Property
Robbery in Virginia criminalizes taking any property from another person using force or violence, and a Virginia Carjacking criminalizes taking possession or control of a motor vehicle specifically.
Difference Between Robbery and Carjacking in Virginia: Penalty
A Virginia Robbery is punished with a minimum of 5 years up to life in prison, but a Virginia Carjacking is punished with a minimum of 15 years up to life in prison.