Theft Charges in Texas: Penalties for Shoplifting, Burglary, and More

Theft Charges in Texas: Penalties for Shoplifting, Burglary, and More

Getting charged with theft in Texas can be scary. The penalties can range from a small fine to years in prison, depending on what you’re accused of stealing and your criminal history. This article will explain the common theft crimes and penalties so you understand what you’re facing if accused.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is when you take merchandise from a store without paying. It’s a type of theft. The penalty depends on the value of what you tried to take:

• Under $100 – Class C misdemeanor, up to $500 fine
• $100-$750 – Class B misdemeanor, up to $2000 fine and 180 days in jail
• $750-$2500 – Class A misdemeanor, up to $4000 fine and 1 year in jail
• $2500-$30000 – State jail felony, up to $10,000 fine and 180 days to 2 years in state jail

The store can also sue you for civil damages up to $1000 under the Texas Theft Liability Act. If you’re a minor, they can sue your parents for up to $5000.

Burglary

Burglary is illegally entering a building to commit a crime, like theft. Penalties depend on what type of building and whether you had a weapon:

• Regular building – State jail felony if no weapon, 3rd degree felony if weapon
• Habitation (home) – 2nd degree felony if no weapon, 1st degree felony if weapon

Penalties get harsher if anyone was inside the building when you entered. Burglary of a home is a 1st degree felony if anyone was present.

Robbery

Robbery is theft by force or threats. It’s more serious than shoplifting or burglary. Penalties include:

• 2nd degree felony if no weapon
• 1st degree felony if weapon used or someone injured

Auto Theft

Stealing a vehicle is a state jail felony. Penalties increase if:

• Vehicle is worth $30,000+ – 3rd degree felony
• Previous conviction – 3rd degree felony
• Vehicle is commercial truck or bus – 3rd degree felony

Defenses

There are defenses that could get your charges reduced or dismissed:

• Mistake – You didn’t realize you hadn’t paid for something when leaving a store.
• False accusation – Someone says you stole something but you didn’t.
• Entrapment – The police convinced you to attempt a theft you wouldn’t have otherwise.

An experienced criminal defense lawyer can evaluate the evidence against you and build a strong defense to avoid a conviction.

Next Steps If Charged

Here’s what to do if you’re charged with theft in Texas:

1. Remain silent and don’t answer police questions.
2. Politely decline to sign any documents.
3. Contact a defense lawyer immediately.
4. Follow your lawyer’s advice about plea deals or going to trial.

Getting charged with theft can be a frightening experience. But there are often ways to fight the charges or get penalties reduced. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can be your ally and advocate to help you through the process.