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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 Pennsylvania, carjacking is considered a serious criminal offense and is addressed under the state's robbery statutes. Specifically, it falls under the category of robbery of a motor vehicle, which is treated as a felony. The law stipulates that anyone who forcibly takes or attempts to take a motor vehicle from another person in the presence of that person or anyone else in lawful possession of the vehicle, by means of force or threat of force, is committing a felony of the first degree. This can include the use of violence, intimidation, or putting the victim in fear of immediate serious bodily injury. Additionally, if the carjacking incident involves the transportation of the stolen vehicle across state lines, it becomes a federal offense under the Hobbs Act or other federal statutes that address motor vehicle theft and interstate commerce. In such cases, federal law enforcement agencies may become involved, and the penalties can include significant fines and longer prison sentences.

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Criminal charges

carjacking

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Pennsylvania State Code

Pennsylvania State Code

Criminal charges

carjacking

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