25 Mar Chopping a Car Can Land You a Felony in Arizona
One of the lesser-known charges associated with stolen cars is dismantling them for parts. While taking a car apart is not illegal in itself, you can face extensive consequences if that car was stolen. Not only will chopping a car make you an accessory to theft, it is also a crime in itself. As five Phoenix residents found out recently, when they were placed under arrest and charged with stealing cars and running a chop shop.
What Is a Chop Shop?
A “chop shop” is an illegal business that takes apart stolen vehicles in order to sell the parts. Typically, these shops are set up to mimic a legitimate body shop, or they may be run as a “side business” out of a legitimate shop.
Taking stolen cars apart is not the only action that qualifies as a crime. The following actions are also illegal:
- Transporting a stolen vehicle to or from a chop shop
- Transporting parts from a stolen vehicle
- Removing, distorting, destroying, or otherwise altering a vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Buying, selling, or possessing an automotive part whose original serial numbers were altered
Chopping Cars Is a Felony in Arizona
According to Arizona statute 13-4702, knowingly participating in any of the acts listed above is a felony. Two different felony classes can be charged within this section of the Arizona penal code.
- Owning and/or operating a chop shop is a class 2 felony.
- Transporting a vehicle, selling or transporting parts, and removing or destroying identification numbers is a class 4 felony.
Prison terms may vary depending on the age of the defendant, the number of previous convictions, potential plea deals, and other considerations. In general:
- Class 2 felonies have a minimum sentence of 3 years and a maximum of 35 years.
- Class 4 felonies have a minimum sentence of 1 year and a maximum of 15 years.
Felony convictions have further consequences besides a prison sentence. Being convicted of a felony means losing civil rights, such as the ability to:
- Vote in elections
- Serve on a jury
- Possess a firearm
- Carry certain professional licenses
- Obtain government-sponsored loans
- Obtain public housing or social benefits like SNAP
A Criminal Defense Attorney Who Will Fight for Your Rights
Being charged with a felony can have lasting effects throughout your entire life. If you are facing felony charges for participation in a chop shop operation or for any other major crime, you need a certified defense attorney on your side. They can help you navigate the complicated judicial system, and they will fight to protect your rights.
Todd Coolidge is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for every client he represents. He treats every client with respect, and makes sure their cases get the attention they deserve. If you are facing criminal charges, contact the Coolidge Law Firm today to request a consultation.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/25/25).Photo by Nina Mercado on Unsplash