Vehicle theft is taken seriously in Illinois, and there are harsh penalties for those who steal cars or commit crimes related to vehicle theft, such as buying or selling a stolen vehicle. While you may think that borrowing a car is no big deal if you have plans to return it, you could potentially be arrested for vehicle theft should the person you borrowed the car from report your use of the vehicle to the police.
A knowledgeable Illinois car theft defense lawyer is essential to protecting your rights and understanding your options if you have been charged with vehicle theft.
Defining Vehicle Theft in Illinois
In Illinois, vehicle theft is included in the state’s General Theft laws. Under these laws, the following actions can constitute vehicle theft: