If you’ve ever been to California, it’s no secret that the streets are lined with some of the most exclusive, high-end luxury cars, making California one of the top states for auto theft. This daily-occurring crime can be treated as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances. Auto theft can result in a variety of charges and punishments.
An auto theft crime is an infraction against the law and penal code of the state of California. The state of California is severely punitive as this crime is committed throughout the entire state. An individual commits grand auto by failing to return a rented car on the return date or doesn’t follow up with the payments. Frequently, individuals commit auto theft by not returning a borrowed car to the rightful owner, usually a family member or friend. At the other end of the spectrum, grand auto theft is also when the accused takes a vehicle by threat and, in some cases, with the hope that the charge will be extortion or carjacking instead of grand auto theft. This crime is described in the California Penal Code Section 215 PC.
Another reason people steal cars is to acquire desirable vehicle parts and sell them. Law enforcement agencies take this into account and investigate properties that sell these vehicle parts. However, most chop shops conduct trickery by modifying the stolen parts to make them unrecognizable. Chop shop owners could face being charged with a misdemeanor or even prison time.
Auto Insurance Fraud is another crime that frequently occurs in California. Usually, the owner falsely reports that their vehicle was stolen to collect insurance. Law enforcement investigates each home to identify those who committed the fraud firsthand.
Whether you or a family member has been charged with Auto Theft, you need D.R.E., the ultimate law firm in California. Our experienced team is ready to provide you with the best services for your day in court.
