Grand Theft Auto vs. Carjacking in Manassas

Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Manassas sound the same, but they are actually distinct offenses with important differences.  Read the post below for information on Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Manassas.

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Manassas

Grand Theft Auto in Manassas is the unauthorized taking of another person’s vehicle with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of his property.

Carjacking in Manassas is the intentional seizure of a motor vehicle or seizure of control of a motor vehicle by using force or violence with the intent to permanently or even temporarily deprive the other person of possession or control of the motor vehicle.

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Manassas: Force or Violence

Using Force or Violence Distinguishes Grand Theft Auto from Carjacking in Manassas

An offender can be convicted of Grand Theft Auto in Manassas without any proof that he used force or violence to take a motor vehicle.  However, a Manassas Carjacking charge requires proof that the offender used force or violence to take possession or control of a motor vehicle.

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Manassas: Intent

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

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Manassas: Penalties

A Grand Theft Auto charge in Manassas can be punished with up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500.  However, Carjacking is much more serious and is punished with a minimum of 15 years up to life in prison.