Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Virginia

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Virginia

There are several differences between Grand Theft Auto (Va. Code §18.2-95) and Carjacking (Va. Code §18.2-58.1) in Virginia.

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

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.

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Virginia: Force

Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking in Virginia Have Different Penalties

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

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Virginia: Intent

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

Grand Theft Auto vs Carjacking in Virginia: Penalties

A Grand Theft Auto charge in Virginia is punished with up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500, whereas Carjacking is punished with at least 15 years in prison up to LIFE in prison.