Motor vehicle theft crimes are rising sharply on U.S. college campuses due largely to electric and electronic vehicle theft. Before 2021, motor vehicle theft was rare at Rutgers University. Now, it is by far the most commonly reported crime on campus. In 2022 (the last year Rutgers reported data), 25 motor vehicle thefts were reported on campus. It's not just New Jersey colleges seeing a surge in motor vehicle theft—it is increasing nationwide.

If you are a student charged with a motor vehicle theft crime in NJ, call the Lento Law Firm. We have a proven track record of defending NJ students, both against criminal charges and in college disciplinary actions (many students face both simultaneously). Call the Lento Law Firm at 888.535.3686 or contact us online, and we will reach out to you.

Why Are Motor Vehicle Thefts Increasing?

Motor vehicle theft rates are increasing on college campuses nationwide, fueled by motor scooter (e-scooter) and electronic bike (e-bike) theft. A March 2025 review from the University of Washington Police Department shows that e-bike theft increased drastically from 2024 to 2025. Compared to the same months in 2024, e-scooter theft rose 600%, and e-bike theft rose 350% in January and February 2025.

Campus e-scooter and e-bike theft are increasing because they are more popular as a mode of transportation, they are worth more, and campus culture may have been historically tolerant of the unauthorized “borrowing” of bikes. Because the punishment for taking a bike depends on whether it has a motor and its value, taking an e-bike or e-scooter is often punished more severely than simple bike theft.

Motor Vehicle Theft Under NJ Law

While many New Jersey college students might see an e-bike or e-scooter theft as a harmless prank, New Jersey law does not share this perspective. The state takes motor vehicle theft very seriously, and the severity of the charges can vary depending on the item's value and the intent of the person accused of taking it.

• Taking a Vehicle Temporarily: If a person takes a motor vehicle but does not intend to hold or keep it permanently, the offense is a fourth-degree indictable offense with a potential penalty of 18 months in prison and a fine of $10,000. This offense increases to a third-degree offense if the person taking the vehicle operates it in a way that causes injury or property damage.
• Theft of a Motor Vehicle: If a person takes a motor vehicle with the intent to keep it permanently, the law defines it as theft. If the value of the stolen motor vehicle is less than $75,000, this offense is punished as a third-degree offense. It is punishable by 3-5 years in jail and up to a $15,000 fine.

What began as a harmless prank may turn into a felony (indictable crime) with profoundly serious consequences. A promising college career can end with expulsion and a felony record. Anyone facing this situation should call the Lento Law Firm Team immediately. Call 888.535.3686 or contact us online, and we will contact you.