In North Carolina, there are several larceny crimes an individual can be charged with regarding motor vehicles. These crimes are considered quite serious since they generally involve property that is of high value. Below, the crimes are listed and show the required elements that the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Each crime also lists the the required punishment as defined by the applicable statute.
James K. Minick
Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle
Elements
A person is guilty if they:
- Willfully takes or operates
- A motor vehicle
- Of another
- Without the consent of the owner or possessor
Punishment
The punishment for the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle is a Class 1 misdemeanor under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-72.2(b). However, if the motor vehicle is an aircraft, the offense is a Class H Felony under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-72.2(b).
Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
Elements
A person is guilty if they:
- Possess
- A vehicle
- Knowing, or with reasonable grounds to believe, that it was stolen or unlawfully taken
Punishment
The punishment for the possession of a stolen vehicle is a Class H Felony under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-106.
Receiving a Stolen Vehicle
Elements
A person is guilty if they:
- Receive from another
- A vehicle
- Knowing, or with reasonable grounds to believe, that it was stolen or unlawfully taken and
- With intent to procure or pass title to the vehicle
Punishment
The punishment for receiving a stolen vehicle is a Class H felony under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-106.
Transferring a Stolen Vehicle
Elements
A person is guilty if they
- Transfer possession
- Of a vehicle
- Knowing, or with reasonable grounds to believe, that it was stolen or unlawfully taken and
- With intent to procure or pass title to the vehicle
Punishment
The punishment for transferring a stolen vehicle is a Class H felony under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-106.
