Columbia Carjacking Charges

In South Carolina, carjacking is when a person attempts to or actually does take a motor vehicle from another person either by force, violence, or intimidation. Columbia carjacking charges are very specific versus standard auto theft. The difference is that the driver is in the vehicle at the moment of theft and, either through force, violence or intimidation, they are removed from that vehicle when it is stolen.

If you face carjacking charges, you could benefit from the services of a dedicated criminal defense attorney. Carjacking is a felony offense, and a conviction could have far-reaching effects on your life. Call a skilled attorney today to discuss your case.

Separate Charges in a Carjacking Offense

If a weapon is involved, armed robbery charges could be added onto carjacking. In addition, an individual could be charged with possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of the violent crime. If there was another individual involved, someone could also face conspiracy charges. Prosecutors could also try to tack on larceny charges.

It is common for prosecutors to tack on multiple charges, but they may not have a solid case for all of them. For this reason, someone charged with carjacking should get help from a lawyer who could argue double jeopardy and ensure they are not over-charged.

Difference Between Carjacking and Joyriding

There are other statutes on the books that cover the use of a vehicle without permission, without the intent to steal or to deprive. The difference is that the accused person was joyriding or borrowing a vehicle that they did not intend to steal. These charges are not as serious and do not carry the type of potential sentence as carjacking.

Penalties for Carjacking in Columbia

If a person is found guilty and convicted of carjacking in Columbia, they are facing up to 20 years in prison. However, this penalty can be enhanced in certain cases. If the alleged victim received great bodily harm and the defendant is ultimately convicted of carjacking, then they are facing an enhanced sentence of up to 30 years in prison.

How Prior Convictions Impact a Carjacking Case

If someone accused of carjacking has prior criminal convictions, they could face more serious penalties if convicted of carjacking. Likewise, a carjacking conviction could make future criminal cases more serious.

In South Carolina, there is a statute that lists out what the law considers serious offenses, and there is a statute that lists out what are considered the most serious offenses. If a person has two prior serious offenses or convictions of serious offenses, then, on the third, the prosecution can seek life without parole. However, if the person has one prior most serious offenses or conviction, they would be eligible for life without parole upon the second conviction.

Let an Attorney Help With Your Carjacking Charges

If you were accused of carjacking, you should not risk appearing in court without an experienced defense lawyer by your side. Columbia carjacking charges can lead to serious penalties including decades in prison. For help crafting a defense and protecting your rights, reach out to an experienced carjacking attorney today.