New North Carolina law ups ante on cargo theft
A new law now in effect in North Carolina is intended to boost the deterrence of truck, rail or container cargo theft.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association believes cargo theft deterrence is a reasonable and overdue action intended to better protect the livelihood of the men and women who help drive the economy.
The new law increases the punishment for cargo theft depending on the value of the property taken from a vehicle. The rule applies to breaking or entering into a railroad car, motor vehicle, trailer, aircraft, boat or other watercraft.
Until now, cargo theft convictions in North Carolina have resulted in Class I felonies regardless of the value of goods taken. Offenders have faced up to 24 months in prison.
To discourage thefts in North Carolina, the new law allows for the combining of offenses occurring over a 90-day period across the state.
- Stolen cargo valued between $1,501 and $20,000 is a Class H felony. Offenders will face up to 39 months in prison.
- Stolen cargo valued between $20,001 and $50,000 is a Class G felony. Offenders will face up to 47 months in prison.
- Stolen cargo valued between $50,001 and $100,000 is a Class F felony. Offenders will face up to 59 months in prison.
- Stolen cargo valued beyond $100,000 is a Class C felony. Offenders will face up to 231 months in prison.
Theft of goods valued at $1,500 or less remains a Class I offense.
Additionally, any conveyance that is used in the commission of the crime can be seized and forfeited.
OOIDA welcomes tougher punishment
Doug Morris, OOIDA director of safety operations, said the Association has been an advocate for tougher sentences and penalties for cargo and truck theft for years.
“Many states continue to overlook the fact that a stolen load of goods could be worth tens of thousands of dollars and in some cases hundreds of thousands of dollars,” Morris said. “The new sentencing guidelines for North Carolina will undoubtedly be a deterrent for cargo theft thieves.” LL