Carjacking in Illinois, especially in the Chicago area, has surged in the past two decades, although there are signs of decline from the peak in 2021. In 2022, Chicago reported 1,655 carjackings, which was more than double the number from 2018, but down about 11 percent from 2021.
Reports from mid-2025 indicate a significant drop, with only 64 carjackings reported between January and June of 2025. Dedicated task forces in Illinois have recovered numerous stolen cars and made a significant number of arrests, and Illinois passed a bill that required car manufacturers to establish a 24-hour hotline for police to track stolen vehicles.
While many people are shocked to find that carjacking is treated as being among the most serious violent felonies in the system, often carrying lengthy prison terms, firearm enhancements, and mandatory minimums. If you are facing carjacking charges or were the “lookout” or someone allegedly involved after the fact, you need a strong, experienced Chicago, IL criminal defense lawyer.