Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2025

Is joyriding considered an indictable offence?

1. True

2. False

3. It varies by jurisdiction

4. Only if damages occur

The correct answer is: False

Joyriding typically falls under the category of a lesser offence, specifically a summary offence, which involves the unauthorized taking of a vehicle without the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. This distinction is important; an indictable offence is generally more serious and can result in harsher penalties, while summary offences usually result in less severe consequences, such as fines or shorter jail sentences. In the context of joyriding, the act itself does not constitute a theft with intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property, which is a key factor in determining whether an offence is considered indictable. Instead, joyriding is often treated as a form of mischief or unauthorized use of a vehicle, making it less serious in the eyes of the law. The other choices address nuanced aspects of how laws might vary by location or circumstances, but the primary classification of joyriding as a summary offence is a widely accepted legal principle. This reflects an understanding of how the justice system categorizes different types of vehicle-related offences and the intention behind them.