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WobblerCalifornia · Vehicle Code § 10851

Vehicle Theft / Joyriding

Taking or driving someone's car without permission.

Can be charged as a felony OR a misdemeanor.

What the prosecutor must prove

They must prove every one of these. If one is missing, you should not be found guilty.

  1. 1You took or drove a car
  2. 2Without the owner's permission
  3. 3You meant to keep it even for a short time

Possible punishment

Misdemeanor: up to 1 year jail. Felony: 16 months, 2, or 3 years.