Motor vehicle theft in Rhode Island is typically charged as a felony when the prosecution can prove intent to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle. The felony charge carries up to 10 years in state prison and a permanent felony record. Lesser-included offenses like unauthorized use of a motor vehicle (joyriding) are misdemeanor-level charges with up to 1 year jail. Aggravating factors like the vehicle's value, the defendant's prior record, or use of the vehicle in another crime can push penalties higher. The line between misdemeanor joyriding and felony grand theft is often the most contested element in defense work.
