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Possession of Stolen Vehicle

Possession of a stolen vehicle charges in SC require that you had control over the vehicle (i.e. you were driving it), but it also requires that you had knowledge that the vehicle was stolen.

When the police find you in or near a vehicle that has been reported as stolen, they might arrest first and ask questions later – police don’t always know or care that knowledge is an element that must be proven. And, they are hoping that you will confess or give them information on other individuals once they have charged you…

What Are the Penalties for Possession of a Stolen Vehicle in SC?

This charge is like other property crimes in that the sentence is determined by the value of the vehicle:

  • If the value of the vehicle is greater than $10,000, it carries a potential sentence of up to ten years in prison;
  • If the value of the vehicle is more than two thousand dollars but less than ten thousand dollars, it carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison; and
  • If the value of the vehicle is less than two thousand dollars, it carries a potential sentence of up to 30 days in prison.

You can be charged with possession of a stolen vehicle whether or not you took the car – the offense consists of 1) possessing the car 2) while you knew that it was stolen.

What Else Could I Be Charged With Based on a Stolen Vehicle?

If the police have any evidence that you stole the vehicle, you could instead be charged with grand larceny, which carries the same potential penalties.

If you borrowed a car or other vehicle without permission, you could be charged with "use of vehicle without permission." This charge is a misdemeanor which carries up to three years, but - if the intent to deprive the owner of use of the vehicle was temporary and the taking of the vehicle was not connected to any other crime, it is reduced to a maximum sentence of one year.

SC Possession of Stolen Vehicle Attorney in Columbia, Lexington, and Myrtle Beach

Lacey Thompson limits her practice to criminal defense in SC courts, including larceny, possession of stolen vehicle, and temporary unlawful use of vehicle (joyriding) charges.

If you have been charged with possession of a stolen vehicle or any crime in Horry County, Richland County, or Lexington County, call the Thompson & Hiller Defense Firm now at (843) 444-6122 or contact us online for a free initial consultation about your case.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
Mindi and Laura were an amazing team team in helping my son with a traffic violation. There responsiveness from answering my phone call, to being able to pay the invoice online, showing up to court and representing my son for a ticket in less than 24 hours. Not to mention successfully having the ticket dismissed. The process was explained to us clearly each step of the way. This allowed us to prepare for any possible ramifications as well being patient with any questions we may have had. Even if the ticket did not get dismissed the care and attention they showed towards my son's situation made us feel very safe in their good hands for this legal matter. N. Jones
★★★★★
I retained Lacey Thompson & Hiller, defense firm for a difficult domestic violence case. She provided a strategy that won my case. Her legal skills are great, but just as important she's a supportive attorney who truly cares and her advice was spot on. I'll always be thankful. Besides Lacey, all the staff that I worked with at Thompson & Hiller firm were terrific: competent, professional, and personable. I recommend Lacey Thompson to everybody who needs a defense attorney. Anonymous
★★★★★
Attorney Laura Hiller, assisted me in 2013 by representing my daughter who at the time was only (14) years old in a juvenile criminal case being tried as an adult. The State charged her with murder. The claims at the time were completely shocking to myself and my daughter at the time and I wasn't sure what to do or who I needed to assist me with this. That's when I met Laura, who in all honesty kept me sane and hopeful through the entire process. She was so thorough when it came to gathering all information from all parties involved, aggressive when stepping into the courtroom, and behind the scenes. Most importantly though she was invested in proving my daughters innocence and I will forever be grateful for her and her work. My daughter's case was dismissed! Definitely who you want in your corner, whether the case is big or small. L.P.M.