What is the chop shop law in Mississippi?

Mississippi law specifically addresses illicit operations known as "chop shops" through statutes designed to deter and punish individuals involved in such activities.

Mississippi's Chop Shop Legislation

In Mississippi, engaging in activities related to a "chop shop" is a serious felony offense. The relevant legislation, found under the state's motor vehicle codes, aims to disrupt the illegal trade of stolen vehicles and their parts.

Defined Prohibited Activities

Under Mississippi law, it is illegal to participate in transactions involving motor vehicles or their parts to or from a location known to be a chop shop. Specifically, an individual is guilty of a felony if they:

• Sell any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part to or from a location, knowing it to be a chop shop.
• Transfer any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part to or from a location, knowing it to be a chop shop.
• Purchase any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part from or to a location, knowing it to be a chop shop.
• Receive any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part from or to a location, knowing it to be a chop shop.

The critical element for conviction is the knowledge that the location is operating as a chop shop.

Penalties for Chop Shop Offenses

Committing these offenses carries significant penalties, reflecting the severity with which Mississippi views such crimes.

These penalties highlight the state's commitment to combating organized vehicle theft and illegal parts trafficking.

What is a "Chop Shop"?

Generally, a "chop shop" refers to a location where stolen motor vehicles are disassembled, or "chopped," into their component parts. These parts are then typically resold individually, often without proper documentation, to disguise their illicit origin and make them harder to trace than a complete stolen vehicle.

Legal Reference

For detailed information regarding offenses and penalties related to chop shops, refer to Mississippi Code 63-25-5, which outlines these provisions.