“Joyriding” isn’t always the fun and adventure it looks like in the movies. Taking someone’s car without their permission can lead to big trouble. In fact, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle in Tulsa, Oklahoma is a felony crime, even if you intended to return the car to the original owner.
Defining the Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle
The state of Oklahoma defines the crime of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle as occurring when 1) a person not entitled to possession of a vehicle, 2) without the consent of the owner and, 3) with intent to deprive the owner, temporarily or otherwise, of the vehicle 4) takes, uses or drives the vehicle.
A prosecutor will have to prove each of the four parts of the crime’s definition (called “elements”) beyond a reasonable doubt in order to successfully convict someone of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.
Therefore, the prosecutor must prove that the defendant did not have authorization to drive the car and that they did not have consent to do so. This can be a difficult question in times where two people may regularly share a car but only one person is the actual owner. (Okla. Stat. tit. 47 § 4-102)
Joyriding Penalties in Oklahoma
Joyriding in Oklahoma could be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If found guilty of the crime of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, a defendant may face a felony conviction and a year or more in jail. A defendant may also have to pay considerable fines or restitution to the car’s owner.
Free Consultation: Tulsa Criminal Defense Lawyer
A charge of the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle can result in time behind bars and serious financial setbacks. If you or anyone you know is faced with this charge, please contact a Tulsa criminal defense lawyer to discuss your available legal options.
Consult with an experienced attorney at Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm. Call today at (918) 913-0725. If you prefer, you can visit our free consultation page to send a question or brief message.