Prior theft convictions can make a stolen vehicle charge significantly more severe in Illinois. The state looks at your criminal history when determining how to charge and sentence you. A prior theft conviction on your record can push a new charge into a higher felony class. That will mean harsher penalties. If you are facing a stolen vehicle charge and have prior theft convictions, a Kane County, IL criminal defense lawyer can help you understand exactly what your history means for your current case and how to challenge the charge.
How Does Illinois Charge Stolen Vehicle Offenses?
Under 625 ILCS 5/4-103, Illinois law makes it a felony to knowingly deal with a stolen vehicle or its parts in almost any way. This includes having, selling, or hiding a car you know is stolen, as well as changing or removing things like the VIN to disguise it. You can also be charged if you handle parts with altered identification or lie about a vehicle being stolen.