Auto theft charges follow three-car crash in Annapolis

Theft crimes can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending upon the value of what was taken and other circumstances. Motor vehicle theft is considered a serious crime and can result in up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine, or both, if there is a conviction.

Recently a three-car crash in Annapolis resulted in more than bent fenders. An Annapolis man was trapped in his vehicle and seriously injured. He was also charged with auto theft of the vehicle he was driving at the time of the crash.

The accident took place at about 7:00 in the evening on Spa Road near Westgate Circle. A 26-year-old Annapolis man was driving a Hyundai Sonata when he lost control and rolled the car. The Hyundai landed on the trunk of a Lincoln Town Car which was then pushed into a third car.

The 26-year-old was trapped in his car and had to be extricated by first responders. While he was being removed from the car, the Hyundai was reported stolen. The 26-year-old was taken to Anne Arundel Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.

When he had recovered enough to be released from the medical center, he was charged with auto theft, arrested and transferred to Jennifer Road Detention Center where he is being held on $40,000 bond.

It was not mentioned whether the 26-year-old knew the owner of the Hyundai and had borrowed it, or if it was truly stolen. It is also possible that someone else stole the Hyundai and that the 26-year-old thought he was driving a friend’s car.

In any case, the 26-year-old is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and is deserving of a vigorous criminal defense.

Source: The Baltimore Sun, “Annapolis man hospitalized after crash, charged with car theft,” Mary Gail Hare, Nov. 19, 2012