California · Penal Code

PEN §465: (a) A person who forcibly enters a vehicle, as defined in Section 670 of the Vehicle Code, with the intent to commit a theft or any felony therein is guilty of unlawful entry of a vehicle.

Felony

What this law says, in plain English

Forcibly entering a vehicle with intent to commit theft or a felony inside is unlawful entry of a vehicle, punishable by up to one year in county jail or state prison.

Read the full statutory text
(a) A person who forcibly enters a vehicle, as defined in Section 670 of the Vehicle Code, with the intent to commit a theft or any felony therein is guilty of unlawful entry of a vehicle. (b) Unlawful entry of a vehicle is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for a period not to exceed one year or imprisonment pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1170. (c) As used in this section, forcible entry of a vehicle means the entry of a vehicle accomplished through any of the following means: the use of a tool or device that manipulates the locking mechanism, including, without limitation, a slim jim or other lockout tool, a shaved key, jiggler key, or lock pick, or an electronic device such as a signal extender, or force that damages the exterior of the vehicle, including, but not limited to, breaking a window, cutting a convertible top, punching a lock, or prying open a door. (d) A person may not be convicted both pursuant to this section and pursuant to Section 459.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.