The Dyer Act, officially known as the National Motor Vehicle Theft Act, is a federal law enacted in 1919 to address automobile theft across state lines. This legislation makes it a federal crime to transport stolen vehicles, vessels, or aircraft in interstate or foreign commerce. The Act aims to support state efforts in combating vehicle theft by providing a federal framework for prosecution.
The Dyer Act is primarily used in criminal law to prosecute individuals involved in the theft and transportation of stolen vehicles. Legal practitioners may reference this Act when dealing with cases of auto theft that cross state lines. Individuals can utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to assist in navigating the related legal processes, such as filing charges or defending against accusations under the Dyer Act.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A person steals a car in California and drives it to Nevada. If caught, they can be charged under the Dyer Act for transporting a stolen vehicle across state lines.
Example 2: A dealer knowingly sells a stolen motorcycle that was transported from one state to another. They can also be prosecuted under the Dyer Act for their involvement in the sale of the stolen vehicle.
The Dyer Act is codified under 18 USCS § 2311 et seq. Key sections include:
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Dyer Act | Federal law addressing the interstate transportation of stolen vehicles. | Specifically deals with interstate transportation; applies federal penalties. |
| Theft | The unlawful taking of someone else's property. | Theft can occur at the state level and does not necessarily involve interstate transport. |
| Receiving Stolen Property | Possessing property that one knows is stolen. | This can apply at both state and federal levels, but the Dyer Act specifically involves interstate commerce. |
If you are facing charges under the Dyer Act or are involved in a case related to stolen vehicles, it is crucial to seek legal advice. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates that may help you understand the legal process or assist in filing necessary documents. Given the complexities of federal law, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored guidance.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Federal |
| Typical Penalty | Fines or imprisonment for up to 10 years |
| Key Statutes | 18 USCS § 2311, 18 USCS § 2312, 18 USCS § 2313 |
The Dyer Act is a federal law that makes it a crime to transport stolen vehicles across state lines.