Virginia law on Carjacking: Va. Code 18.2-58.1
What is Carjacking in Virginia?
Carjacking is illegal in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1:
A. Any person who commits carjacking, as herein defined, shall be guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for life or a term not less than fifteen years.
B. As used in this section, “carjacking” means the intentional seizure or seizure of control of a motor vehicle of another with intent to permanently or temporarily deprive another in possession or control of the vehicle of that possession or control by means of partial strangulation, or suffocation, or by striking or beating, or by other violence to the person, or by assault or otherwise putting a person in fear of serious bodily harm, or by the threat or presenting of firearms, or other deadly weapon or instrumentality whatsoever. “Motor vehicle” shall have the same meaning as set forth in § 46.2-100.
C. The provisions of this section shall not preclude the applicability of any other provision of the criminal law of the Commonwealth which may apply to any course of conduct which violates this section.
How is Carjacking Punished in Virginia?
Carjacking is a felony with a jail sentence of 15 years to life. Meaning, it carries a minimum jail sentence of 15 years.
What is Attempted Carjacking?
Attempted carjacking is also punished heavily in Virginia. It is just as illegal and carries serious penalties even though the crime was never completed. Attempted Robbery is also a felony with a minimum jail time of 2 years and up to 10 years. It can also carry a fine of up to $100,000.00.
Consult with Experienced Carjacking Attorneys
Carjacking and attempted carjacking are serious charges with even more serious consequences. You need an attorney who can evaluate your individual case, facts of your case, any defenses you might have, and knows the local procedures for your jurisdiction. Like the statute suggests, you can be charged with multiple other charges such as Robbery, while being charged with carjacking. Contact our office today for a free case consultation.
