Auto Theft Defense Attorney

Pennsylvania generally classifies auto theft as a serious felony. Penalties can range from probation to significant state prison sentences, with increased exposure when the case involves weapons, violence, or prior convictions.

If police have contacted you or executed a warrant, stay silent and call our lawyers before answering any questions. At Chieppor & Egner, our attorneys defend clients facing auto theft crime allegations across South Central Pennsylvania.

Theft of a Motor Vehicle

Under Pennsylvania law, theft of a motor vehicle occurs when a person unlawfully takes or exercises unlawful control over another person’s vehicle with the intent to deprive the owner permanently. The offense is graded as a second-degree felony, carrying a maximum sentence of seven years in state prison and fines of up to $15,000 upon conviction.

Carjacking

Carjacking is charged as robbery of a motor vehicle. It involves taking a vehicle from another person by force, threat, or intimidation when the owner or operator is present. A conviction is a first-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in state prison and fines of up to $25,000, with sentencing enhancements common.

Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle

Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle occurs when someone operates another person’s vehicle without consent, but without the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Often charged in joyriding cases, the offense is a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to two years in county jail and fines up to $5,000.

Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving stolen property covers situations where a person intentionally receives, retains, or disposes of a vehicle knowing it was stolen or believing it probably was. The grading tracks the vehicle’s value, with most auto-related cases charged as third-degree felonies, carrying up to seven years’ incarceration and fines of $15,000.

Auto Theft Defenses in Pennsylvania

Every auto theft case turns on what the prosecution can prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Our attorneys examine the evidence, witness statements, and police procedures to build tailored defenses that challenge the Commonwealth’s case from multiple angles:

• Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove you intended to deprive the owner of the vehicle, which often falls apart in misunderstanding or consent disputes.
• Mistaken Identity: Eyewitness errors and flawed surveillance footage frequently lead to the wrong person being charged with vehicle-related crimes.
• Consent: Evidence showing the owner permitted use of the vehicle can defeat theft and unauthorized use charges.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Violations of the Fourth Amendment under Article I, Section 8 of the Pennsylvania Constitution can result in the suppression of evidence.

Consult Our Reputable Pennsylvania Theft Crimes Lawyer Today

Attorney Jonathan Chieppor has led the Auto Theft Task Force in Lancaster County for the past two years, overseeing every auto theft case during that period. If you have been charged with an offense involving vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, or scooters, he can help guide you through the process and work to protect your rights.

Both of our lawyers previously served in the District Attorney’s Office, giving us a strong understanding of the procedures and nuances involved in these cases, and we are prepared to assist you. Call Chieppor & Egner at 717-393-1400 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our auto theft attorney in Pennsylvania, serving clients in Lancaster, Berks, and York Counties. Our team is ready to examine your case and build a strategic defense.