Which statement is true regarding the classification of tampering/ theft of MV/IS in relation to prior convictions?

• A. It is always a Class B offense
• B. It can be Class B or Class A depending on prior convictions
• C. It is a felony in all cases
• D. It is not defined

Answer: (B)

The important idea here is how prior convictions affect the classification of certain offenses. For tampering with or theft of a motor vehicle or its information system, the law uses prior qualifying criminal history to determine the penalty level. If there are no qualifying prior convictions, the offense falls at a lower tier (Class B). If there are prior convictions that trigger an enhancement, the same conduct can be elevated to a higher tier (Class A). This reflects a deliberate mechanism to hold repeat offenders more accountable. So the statement that it can be Class B or Class A depending on prior convictions is the accurate one. It isn’t fixed at Class B in every case, nor is it automatically a felony in all cases; and the statute does define how the classification can change with history.