Legal Question in Criminal Law in Texas

Unauthorized Use of Vehicle

My son and g/f used my car without permission while I was on vacation. My mint condition 2008 Mustang was significantly damaged ($12-15,000 to repair) during their joy ride. He first blamed his g/f, but is now taking full blame so that no one else will get in trouble. I will probably never find out who really wrecked it, but what can I do to scare the crap out of them, but at the same time keep them out of jail for auto theft? I'm afraid to report to my insurance company since I had not even made my first car payment when the accident occurred. Police report? Criminal trespass? Restraining order? Insurance involvement? So many questions how to handle this -- Thanks for any insight you may have.


Asked on 7/07/08, 10:50 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
TC Langford Langford Law Office

Re: Unauthorized Use of Vehicle

Although I sympathize with your dilemma -- you can't get what you want. You don't get to choose the criminal charges. You report the incident to the police, and they will review the facts, and determine the appropriate charges. Because of the amount of damage involved, it will be a felony, and they will probably both be arrested. Sorry.

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Answered on 7/08/08, 7:55 am


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