Joyriding or Grand Theft: Don’t Toy With Your Future
Auto theft laws in Oklahoma offer prosecutors a buffet of crimes that can be charged when the wrong person is accused of driving the wrong vehicle. Theft or larceny of a motor vehicle, carjacking, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and joyriding all involve misappropriation of someone else’s ride.
Joy riding is a misdemeanor. Larceny of a motor vehicle in Oklahoma is a felony. Differences are defined by law, but prosecutors interpret those laws for their benefit. The difference between a deferred prosecution for misdemeanor joyriding and a long prison stint for “grand theft auto” may depend on no more than your attorney’s ability to persuade prosecutors to accept a plea agreement.
If someone has been charged with auto theft or has a loved one who has been charged, it is crucial to understand the specifics of this charge and seek the assistance of a qualified criminal defense attorney. The experienced attorneys at the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm have defended clients against Grand Theft Auto charges and can provide the necessary legal guidance and representation to navigate the legal process.
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation statistics indicate that in 2020, 3,803 motor vehicle thefts were reported in Oklahoma, which was a 3.8% decrease from the previous year. Of these thefts, 2,439 were classified as Grand Theft Auto, which involves the intentional taking of a motor vehicle worth $1,000 or more without the owner’s consent, according to the OSBI’s annual crime report for 2020.
What is Grand Theft Auto in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, grand theft auto is defined as the intentional taking of a motor vehicle worth $1,000 or more without the owner’s consent. This charge can also be applied if someone takes a motor vehicle from a rental company without their consent, or if someone uses force, violence, or fear to take the vehicle.
Penalties for Grand Theft Auto in Oklahoma
Penalties for Grand Theft Auto in Oklahoma vary depending on the value of the stolen vehicle. If the vehicle is worth less than $1,000, it is considered Petit Theft, a misdemeanor offense. However, if the vehicle is worth $1,000 or more, it is considered Grand Theft Auto, a felony offense.
Grand Theft Auto penalties can include substantial fines and prison time. A first-time offender may face a fine of up to $5,000 and a prison sentence of up to five years. For subsequent offenses, the penalties increase, with a third offense carrying a minimum prison sentence of 10 years.
Call the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm Today For a Free Consultation
If you are charged with grand theft auto in Oklahoma, it is crucial to seek the help of a qualified criminal defense attorney at 918-256-3400. The attorneys at the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm have experience defending clients against grand theft auto charges and understand the complexities of this offense. They can provide legal guidance, negotiate with the prosecution, and ensure that their client’s rights are protected throughout the legal process.
If someone has been charged with this offense, they should immediately retain a qualified criminal defense attorney. The attorneys at the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm have extensive experience in defending clients against Grand Theft Auto charges and are dedicated to providing their clients with the best possible legal guidance and representation. To schedule a free consultation and learn more about their legal services, call the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm at 918-256-3400.