Anti Car Theft Act
The Anti-Car Theft Act of 1992 was approved by Congress to institute federal penalties for several auto theft crimes, particularly carjacking. The Act strengthened the 1984 Motor Vehicle Theft Law Enforcement Act, in which Congress first addressed the growing problem of auto theft in the U.S. The federal penalties approved as a result of the 1992 Act can, in some cases, result in life imprisonment and even death.
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Carjacking
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The Act specifically addressed carjacking, a growing phenomenon in which someone steals a car by forcefully removing the driver and his/her occupants. The Act made carjacking a federal offense and the penalties are severe, with potential prison terms of up to 15 years and fines. If someone is injured during the theft, the maximum prison sentence increases to 25 years. In the event that someone is killed during the theft, then the penalty could be life imprisonment and even the death penalty.
Exporting and Importing Stolen Cars
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The Act recognized the growing business of auto theft by increasing penalties on those who export or import stolen cars for sale overseas and in the U.S. Stolen cars are re-sold in whole or chopped down for its parts, which are then resold by unscrupulous dealers or mechanics. Anyone convicted of participating in the importing or exporting of stolen cars or its parts can face maximum penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines.
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Chop Shops
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Congress recognized the growth of organized auto theft and the importance of chop shops in the resale of stolen autos and their parts. A chop shop is where a stolen car is stripped of its parts, which are then resold on the black market or to unsuspecting dealers. Chop shops serve as the main distribution point for auto parts and the Act provides severe penalties for anyone convicted of owning or operating one. A first conviction can result in fines and a maximum prison term of 15 years and a second conviction could result in a prison term of up to 30 years.
Removal or Changing of VIN
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A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a 17-digit number unique to every car and truck. Stolen cars are often resold by traffickers with their VIN numbers changed to escape detection. The Act strengthened the penalties for changing VIN numbers, making it a federal offense that could result in fines and a prison term of up to five years.
Counterfeit Titles and Registrations
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After stealing your car and changing your VIN number, organized car theft rings will complete their ruse by making the car available for resale by creating a new title and registration. The Act instituted federal penalties for creating counterfeit documents, with a conviction resulting in fines and a maximum prison term of five years.
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