There are tens of thousands of theft convictions in the state of Texas each year, from minor misdemeanors to more serious felonies. The category of theft determines the punishment, from $500 fines to hefty prison sentences.
Theft Penalties in Texas
The state of Texas categorizes theft offenses based on the value of the stolen property. The severity of punishment increases with the value of the stolen items. The Texas Penal Code classifies theft into several categories:
Class C Misdemeanor
- Theft of property valued at less than $100.
- Penalty: A fine of up to $500, but no jail time.
Class B Misdemeanor
- Theft of property valued between $100 and $750.
- Penalty: Up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Class A Misdemeanor
- Theft of property valued between $750 and $2,500.
- Penalty: Up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
State Jail Felony
- Theft of property valued between $2,500 and $30,000.
- Penalty: 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and a fine of up to $10,000.
Third-Degree Felony
- Theft of property valued between $30,000 and $150,000.
- Penalty: 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Second-Degree Felony
- Theft of property valued between $150,000 and $300,000.
- Penalty: 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
First-Degree Felony
- Theft of property valued at $300,000 or more.
- Penalty: 5 to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Legal Defense Strategies for a Theft Charge in Texas
Facing a theft charge can be daunting, but a skilled attorney can make a significant difference as they examine the evidence.
Lack of Intent
Demonstrating that the accused did not have the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property can be a viable defense.
Mistaken Identity
If there is evidence of mistaken identity or insufficient proof linking the defendant to the crime, an attorney can argue for dismissal.
Value Dispute
Challenging the valuation of the stolen property can be crucial, especially in cases where the value determines the severity of the offense.
Consent
Establishing that the defendant had the owner's consent to take the property can serve as a strong defense.
Illegal Search & Seizure
If evidence was obtained unlawfully, an attorney can file a motion to suppress, arguing that the evidence should be excluded from the case.
Procedural Errors
Identifying errors in the legal process or violation of the defendant's rights can be grounds for challenging the case.
Facing a theft charge can be daunting, but a skilled attorney can make a significant difference as they examine the evidence.
Lack of Intent
Demonstrating that the accused did not have the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property can be a viable defense.
Mistaken Identity
If there is evidence of mistaken identity or insufficient proof linking the defendant to the crime, an attorney can argue for dismissal.
Value Dispute
Challenging the valuation of the stolen property can be crucial, especially in cases where the value determines the severity of the offense.
Consent
Establishing that the defendant had the owner's consent to take the property can serve as a strong defense.
Illegal Search & Seizure
If evidence was obtained unlawfully, an attorney can file a motion to suppress, arguing that the evidence should be excluded from the case.
Procedural Errors
Identifying errors in the legal process or violation of the defendant's rights can be grounds for challenging the case.
Lawyer-Up
Call Jeff Brown, Texas criminal defense attorney. He understands the stress you're experiencing and stands as your advocate with the law. When it seems no one else has your best interests in mind, Jeff does.
Call Jeff Brown, Texas criminal defense attorney. He understands the stress you're experiencing and stands as your advocate with the law. When it seems no one else has your best interests in mind, Jeff does.