Carjacking is a type of robbery in which the criminal uses force or the threat of force to take possession and control of an automobile—usually when the victim is inside or near the automobile. Carjacking laws vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state’s penal code. Carjacking is also a federal crime when the stolen vehicle is transported, shipped, or received in interstate or foreign commerce (generally, transported across state lines).
In Tennessee, carjacking is considered a serious felony offense. Under Tennessee law, especially the Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) § 39-13-404, carjacking is defined as the intentional or knowing taking of a motor vehicle from the possession of another by the use of force or intimidation. This crime is classified as a Class B felony, which can result in severe penalties including imprisonment and fines. The sentence for a Class B felony in Tennessee can range from 8 to 30 years in prison, along with fines up to $25,000. Additionally, if the carjacking offense involves the crossing of state lines, it can also be prosecuted under federal law. The federal statute (18 U.S.C. § 2119) stipulates that carjacking is a federal crime when the vehicle is taken by force, violence, or intimidation with the intent to cause death or serious bodily harm. The federal penalties for carjacking can include a lengthy prison sentence and are more severe if the crime results in harm to any person.