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Criminal charges

carjacking

Carjacking is a type of robbery in which the criminal uses force or the threat of force to take possession and control of an automobile—usually when the victim is inside or near the automobile. Carjacking laws vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state’s penal code. Carjacking is also a federal crime when the stolen vehicle is transported, shipped, or received in interstate or foreign commerce (generally, transported across state lines).

In Florida, carjacking is considered a serious felony offense. Under Florida Statute 812.133, carjacking is defined as the intentional and unlawful taking of another person's motor vehicle with the intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the person of the vehicle, done with the use of force, violence, assault, or putting in fear. If a firearm or other deadly weapon is used during the carjacking, the offense is elevated to armed carjacking, which carries more severe penalties. Penalties for carjacking in Florida can include substantial prison time, with the possibility of life imprisonment if a firearm is used. Additionally, as noted, carjacking can also be prosecuted as a federal crime if the stolen vehicle is transported across state lines, under the federal law that prohibits interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle (18 U.S.C. § 2312).

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Criminal charges

carjacking

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Florida State Code

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Criminal charges

carjacking

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