What best characterizes a "joy-riding juvenile"?

A "joy-riding juvenile" is typically characterized by the act of taking a vehicle without the owner's permission for the purpose of fun or thrill rather than with the intention of keeping or selling it. These individuals often abandon the vehicle after a short period, which aligns with the nature of their actions being impulsive and driven by the excitement of driving something they don't own. This behavior highlights the transient and often reckless attitude associated with joy-riding, as the focus is on the temporary enjoyment of the thrill rather than any long-term use of the vehicle.

The characteristic of abandoning the vehicle speaks to the juvenile's lack of responsibility or concern for the property they have utilized without permission. This sets joy-riders apart from individuals who might steal vehicles intending to use them for longer periods or for profit, as those motives indicate a more calculated approach to vehicle theft.