Car thefts peaked in the early 1990s in the United States, with states like New Jersey and New York on top. Now with cars becoming more difficult to steal, those same states are leading the nation in declines with New Jersey’s auto theft rate dropping a whopping 79{74bbbd36a4df8b83bd1805c8c4f34bcc3063e84848f392c2fd8bb03fcdaa883e} from 2009 back to 1990.
In 1991, the United States experienced 1,661,738 auto thefts. Back then it was as simple as using a coat hanger to gain access and “hot wiring” the car. Now, things aren’t so simple. With secure keys, alarms, and much more complicated computer systems within the car, the best chance for stealing a vehicle is when they are left running in the driveway on a cold morning.
According to the New Jersey Press Media over 72,500 cars were stolen in the peak year 1990. In 2009 there were only 15,501 stolen in the state. One police Detective who used to work auto theft in the heyday states it was common for thieves to steal a car, drive out to resort towns to party, and steal another to come back home.
With modern cars making it more difficult for thieves, their methods have changed. It seems now older-model Hondas are targeted, stripped, and sold for parts. Because not only is it more difficult to get into and start a newer car, you’re more likely to get caught driving one around with police-technology advances keeping pace.
GPs can track a stolen car, license plate scanners can alert police immediately if one is in their midst, and that’s all dependent on the thief getting the car started in the first place, a sometimes daunting if not impossible task when the keys aren’t present.
Auto theft used to be big business, less risky than drug trafficking, but potentially just as lucrative. The money isn’t there anymore, however, as technology has made the business that much more difficult.
Not only is it more difficult to steal a car, but the penalties are pretty tough as well. If you’re accused of stealing a motor vehicle, you will face a charge of Third Degree Theft. This is a felony and carries up to 5 years in prison. Found in possession of a stolen car even though you weren’t responsible for the theft? You could face charges of receiving stolen property and be looking at a similar prison sentence.
All criminal charges should be taken seriously. But a felony charge has the potential to change your life. Whether you are accused of stealing a car or any other indictable offense, we might be able to help. Contact our offices today for a consultation on your case.