Common Car-Related Crimes in California
The United States is famous for its car culture. Ever since the first Model Ts took to the roads, Americans have enjoyed the simple pleasure of taking a drive down a scenic road with their favorite tunes playing in the background. Because of the automobile’s central role in our culture, it should come as no surprise that a significant amount of crime revolves around these vehicles. From street racing and illegal modifications to carjackings and fuel theft, a considerable number of auto-related crimes are committed in California with each passing day. But what happens if you are charged with one of these offenses?
Catalytic Converter Theft
One of the newest auto-related crimes involves catalytic converter theft. Catalytic converters are new additions to modern vehicles, and they are infamously easy to steal. This crime has become so common that a nationwide criminal underground has evolved to facilitate the easy sale of stolen catalytic converters. Motorists who have their catalytic converters stolen face steep bills when they visit their mechanic for repairs. This rising issue has drawn the attention of authorities around the nation, and a widespread effort to tackle this catalytic converter black market is now in effect.
On November 2, 2022, the Department of Justice announced that it had coordinated with federal, state, and local law enforcement organizations for a sudden crackdown on the nationwide catalytic converter black market. Arrests and seizures occurred throughout numerous states, including California – with 21 so-called “ringleaders” taken into custody and charged with various offenses. 32 search warrants were executed, and millions of dollars in cash were seized. A number of luxury vehicles were also seized.
Authorities reported that California accounted for 37% of all catalytic converter thefts, as the state has higher emission standards than most. According to the Justice Department, as many as 1,600 catalytic converters were stolen each month in 2021 in California. If you were involved in the catalytic converter black market in any way, you might face charges such as conspiracy, money laundering, and many other crimes. Even if you accepted catalytic converters unwittingly without knowing they were stolen, you could still face charges.
Gas Theft
Gas theft has become an increasingly lucrative business as prices continue to soar. While such crimes may not have been worth the effort a few years ago, higher prices means that there is a much higher incentive to steal and sell this “black gold.” March, 2022, it had been reported that gas theft was rising in California, with some car owners reporting that criminals had drilled holes in their gas tanks in order to siphon the liquid. This is necessary for newer cars, as these models typically have built-in locks that prevent criminals from simply lifting the lids.
In September 2022, it was reported that a modified truck had been used to steal 200 gallons of gas from a gas station in Pinon Hills. Those responsible were eventually arrested, but this shows just how far some are willing to go in order to get their hands on this valuable liquid. The two defendants were eventually charged with conspiracy, grand theft, and vandalism. It was later determined that they had pulled off a similar heist just days before at a different gas station.
Carjackings
Carjacking is one of the most serious auto-related crimes you can commit in California, as it often puts victims in extreme danger. In order to steal a car, defendants often brandish deadly weapons such as firearms. This can easily lead to felony charges and many years (or even decades) in prison. On October 31st, it was reported that a driver in San Diego had been carjacked – although, fortunately, the victim was unharmed. The same cannot be said for a carjacking victim in Inglewood, who was dragged underneath his own car for a considerable distance by the defendant. This carjacker was charged with murder.
Sideshows
For those who do not know, a “sideshow” is an informal gathering of vehicles and crowds at a public location – usually a vacant parking lot or a remote intersection. Sideshows can involve anything from racing, drifting, or simply the revving of engines. According to California’s legislature, sideshows include any “motor vehicle speed contest on a highway, reckless driving in an off-street parking facility, or an exhibition of speed on a highway.” As you can see, this definition is extremely vague – and it includes just about anything that could possibly be defined as reckless on the road.
In November of 2022, the California Highway Patrol announced that it was using a new federal grant to crack down on illegal sideshows. This “STREET Grant” will help the highway patrol specifically target aggressive driving behaviors, sideshows, street racing, and the like. In January 2023, Gavin Newsom’s new Assembly Bill 2000 will make it illegal for anyone to participate in a motor vehicle speed contest or a sideshow – whether you harmed anyone or not.
Illegal Modifications
In addition, it is worth mentioning that a number of modifications are considered illegal in the state of California. This includes loud exhausts, certain levels of window tinting, nitrous oxide, and much more. Even if you purchase a “stock car” from a licensed dealer, it may not be legal to drive in the state of California. In October of 2022, it was reported that a Hyundai Elantra N owner had been forced to sell his vehicle at a considerable loss because of the car’s loud exhaust – even though the exhaust had been added to the vehicle on the factory floor. This was due to California’s strict laws regarding exhaust noise.
Where Can I Find a Criminal Defense Attorney in Redlands?
If you have been searching for a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney in California, look no further than Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox. Over the years, we have helped numerous defendants pursue positive results – including those who have been charged with auto-related offenses. We know that facing these charges can feel incredibly daunting – but it is important to understand that you are not alone. Enlist the help of our experienced criminal defense attorney, and you may find that your situation is not quite as bad as you thought. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective defense strategy.
Stephen Levine, is a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense — an honor achieved by only the top criminal law attorneys in California. Mr. Levine has over 40 years of experience in criminal defense and family law serving Southern California, and is a highly regarded Super Lawyer as well as AV Rated attorney.