Theft involves the misappropriation of resources that belong to someone else. People can face theft charges over allegedly shoplifting from a retail establishment or taking personal property out of someone’s home.
To many people, theft allegations may seem relatively minor. When compared with violent criminal offenses or drug crimes, theft may not seem very serious. However, Texas treats theft as a significant criminal violation. The state imposes a variety of different penalties depending on the circumstances surrounding the theft allegations.
Defendants expecting lenience or at least misdemeanor criminal charges may end up surprised when prosecutors pursue felony charges against them instead. When does a theft offense change from a misdemeanor crime to a felony offense?
Property value and type determine the charges
State statutes include multiple different classifications of theft offenses. Some of them are far more serious than others. Typically, the main factor that determines what charges an individual faces and therefore what penalties the courts might impose is the overall value of the property involved.
Typically, theft only becomes a felony offense when the total value of the assets reaches $2,500. There are multiple different categories of misdemeanor theft possible for allegations involving less valuable property. Once the total value of the assets involved reaches $2,500, Texas prosecutors can bring felony charges against the defendant.
As the value of the assets increases, so does the severity of the felony charge. Certain types of property can also lead to felony charges regardless of their value. Those accused of stealing livestock could face felony charges. The same is true of those accused of stealing from a human corpse or a grave. Theft of a firearm, an official ballot from an election, valuable metals including copper, controlled substances or catalytic converters from vehicles.
Those who are familiar with the unique rules that apply to allegations of theft are in the best possible position to make informed choices about their response. Fighting theft charges becomes increasingly important if the state can pursue felony charges.
Defendants worried about the consequences of pending theft charges may need help reviewing their circumstances. With the right approach, those accused of theft may avoid criminal convictions that can result in serious consequences and a permanent criminal record.