The Elements of Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle in Oklahoma

unauthorized use of a vehicle in Oklahoma Taking someone else’s car without their permission is a serious crime in Muskogee, Oklahoma.

In fact, you can be charged with the crime of unauthorized use of a vehicle in Oklahoma even if you intend to return the car to its owner.

Because this crime can have far-reaching consequences, an experienced Muskogee criminal defense attorney can help navigate the legal problems ahead of you.

What is Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle in Oklahoma?

The state defines the crime of unauthorized use of a vehicle in Oklahoma broadly.

Under Oklahoma law, a person is not entitled to possession of a vehicle without the consent of the owner and with intent to deprive the owner.

This is true even if a defendant only intended to use the vehicle temporarily.

If convicted of this charge, the defendant will be guilty of a felony crime and will face at least one year in prison. (Ok. Stat. Tit. 47 Sec. 4-102).

Additional Legal Considerations

No person may be convicted of unauthorized use of a vehicle in Oklahoma unless the State has proved beyond a reasonable doubt each element of the crime.

These elements are:

First, the taking/using/driving;

Second, a vehicle;

Third, by the defendant;

Fourth, without the consent of the owner;

Fifth, with the intent to deprive the owner, temporarily or otherwise, of the vehicle or its possession

This case becomes complicated if the defendant alleges that the owner allowed him to use the vehicle. This question is a question of fact that must be presented to the jury.