Theft Crimes

Arrested for Theft? Call G.J. Chavez & Associates, P.C.!

Theft crimes cover a wide range of activities, from shoplifting to burglary to embezzlement to forgery. The penalties for these crimes are also extremely varied, depending on the type of theft, the circumstances of the crime, and the defendant’s criminal history. If you have been arrested for theft, it is critical that you act quickly and retain the services of a skilled criminal defense attorney.

Call our Plano theft crime attorney at (972) 705-5374 or contact us online today!

Texas Theft & Related Offenses

Under Texas law, theft is the taking of property that belongs to someone else without their permission and with the intent to deprive the owner of the property. This includes the taking of property that is not in the owner’s possession, such as embezzlement of funds or check fraud.

Theft is considered a misdemeanor if the value of the property or services stolen is less than $100. It is considered a felony if the value of the property or services stolen is $100 or more but less than $750, and a state jail felony if the value of the property or services stolen is $750 or more but less than $2,500.

Other theft-related crimes include:

• Burglary and trespass, which are crimes of theft by unlawful entry and are punishable by prison time and fines
• Embezzlement, which is theft by a person in a position of trust
• Check fraud, which is fraud related to the use of a check

Penalties for Theft Convictions

The penalties for a theft conviction depend on the type of theft, the value of the property or services stolen, and the defendant’s criminal history. For example, theft of property worth $100 or less is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. However, if the defendant has a prior theft conviction or two prior convictions for any criminal offense, the offense is punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.

In addition to jail time and fines, a defendant convicted of theft may be required to pay restitution to the victim for the value of the stolen property. Restitution is a sum of money the defendant must pay to the victim to reimburse the victim for the value of the stolen property. The defendant may also be required to pay a $100 civil restitution fee for each victim to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

A defendant convicted of theft may also be required to complete a theft offender education program approved by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. These programs are typically offered at local community centers and are designed to help the defendant understand why they committed the theft and how to avoid future theft.

Don’t Risk a Conviction Without Experienced Representation

If you have been arrested for theft, it is imperative that you immediately contact a Plano theft crime attorney to discuss your situation. A conviction for theft can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, restitution, and a criminal record that may make it difficult to find employment and housing.

Our Plano theft crime attorney has handled hundreds of criminal cases and has a proven track record of success. We understand the details of Texas theft laws and can help you navigate the criminal justice system. We will work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Call our Plano theft crime attorney at (972) 705-5374 or contact us online today!