Maryland reports that motor vehicle thefts make up more than 10% of property crimes. Auto theft carries severe legal consequences that you need to be aware of if you are facing charges in this state.
It is important to understand the potential punishment associated with this crime. Consider the punishment for auto theft in Maryland, outlining the legal consequences that may result from such charges.
Felony offense
Maryland treats auto theft as a felony offense, imposing significant penalties. The severity of the punishment depends on various factors, such as the value of the stolen vehicle and the prior criminal record.
Value-based classification
Maryland law categorizes auto theft offenses based on the value of the stolen vehicle, which determines the potential penalties.
For theft of a motor vehicle valued below $1,000: If the stolen vehicle’s value is less than $1,000, the offense is a misdemeanor. The court may impose penalties that include up to 18 months of imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $500.
For theft of a motor vehicle valued at $1,000 or more: If the stolen vehicle’s value is $1,000 or more, the offense is a felony. The potential penalties include up to 5 years of imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
Enhanced penalties
Under certain circumstances, the court may enhance the penalties for auto theft based on specific factors. This means that the penalty will be more than the typical penalty given for a crime in that category.
Repeat offenses
If you have a prior conviction for auto theft or related offenses, the court may impose more severe penalties. These enhanced penalties can include longer imprisonment terms and higher fines.
Use of force or weapon
If the auto theft involved the use of force or a weapon, the court may impose more severe penalties. The presence of force or a weapon can be an aggravating factor, leading to enhanced punishment upon conviction.
Auto theft is a serious crime in Maryland, and the legal consequences can be severe. It is important to understand the potential punishment associated with auto theft charges.