Carjacking

From ArticleWorld

Carjacking is the unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, usually at gunpoint. It is considered a federal crime in the United States and usually handled in a federal court.

Like most federal crimes, carjacking is a felony and is punishable by more than a year of imprisonment. Depending on the resulting injuries in the course of carjacking, it can even be penalized by life imprisonment. There is also a campaign for the imposition of death penalty for carjacking.

The treatment of carjacking as a federal offense has resulted to criticisms by some sectors who believe that the states should be given the right to regulate and penalize carjacking in their jurisdictions. Carjacking has become a major crime industry for syndicates not only in the United States but in other countries as well.

Carjacking distinguished from Theft

Carjacking is a crime distinct from motor vehicle theft in the following aspects

1. Motor vehicle theft is committed by simply stealing the vehicle while the owner is not around while in Carjacking, the vehicle is taken while it is occupied
2. Motor vehicle theft is generally a non violent crime while Carjacking is a violent crime, sometimes leading to bodily harm and even death
3. Motor vehicle theft is a crime against property while Carjacking is a crime against person
4. The penalties are greater for Carjacking than for Motor vehicle theft

Authorities advise car owners or occupants to avoid struggling with carjackers and yield their vehicles to the criminals when asked to do so. This follows the principle that life is more valuable than property. A person who commits the crime of Carjacking is prepared for any eventuality, including killing anyone who gets in their way. Carjackers do not operate alone and are usually supported by another person or gang members.

Prevention

Everyone who owns or drives a car is vulnerable to the crime of Carjacking. The following precautionary measures should be considered

1. Always lock car doors when inside the vehicle
2. Get a car insurance which includes coverage for car theft
3. Be wary of strangers lurking in the dark corners or secluded areas even in broad daylight
4. Refrain from rolling down car windows while on traffic
5. Avoid traveling in isolated or rural areas during irregular hours