BJS: Bureau of Justice Statistics

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Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS)
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Motor vehicle theft
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Motor vehicle theft is defined as the stealing or unauthorized taking of a motor vehicle, including attempted thefts.

  • Completed motor vehicle theft - The successful taking of a vehicle by an unauthorized person.
  • Attempted motor vehicle theft - The unsuccessful attempt by an unauthorized person to take a vehicle.

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Terms & Definitions

Motor vehicle theft Stealing or unauthorized taking of a motor vehicle, including attempted thefts.
Completed motor vehicle theft - The successful taking of a vehicle by an unauthorized person.

Attempted motor vehicle theft - The unsuccessful attempt by an unauthorized person to take a vehicle.