Texas enforces unique laws regarding theft. These laws include specific penalties for certain types of theft, like shoplifting or burglary.
Theft can be divided into two categories: petty theft and grand theft. Petty theft is considered a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Grand theft is a felony and is punishable by up to three years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
What are the Different Types of Theft?
In Texas, different types of theft carry individual penalties.
Theft is unlawfully taking another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of its use or value. However, theft can be simplified into six categories: shoplifting, robbery/burglary, writing hot checks, receiving stolen property, using a vehicle without permission, and debit/credit card abuse.
Shoplifting occurs when someone takes merchandise from a store without paying for it and intends to return it for a refund or exchange.
Robbery/burglary is taking another person’s property with the intent to commit an armed robbery or home invasion. The term “robbery” is sometimes used to describe crimes that are merely violent or forceful thefts, such as armed theft or strong-arm robbery.
Writing a bad check is when someone writes a check for an amount greater than what’s available in their bank account. The maximum penalties can include fees, fines, restitution, court fees, and even incarceration if the stolen item’s value is high enough.
Receiving stolen property is when someone receives or purchases stolen goods. This type of crime occurs when a perpetrator sells or gives away stolen items to someone else. The recipient then becomes the “seller” of the goods, which may increase the chances of being accused of receiving stolen property.
Debit/credit card abuse occurs when an individual uses a stolen or forged credit card. This type of debit/credit card abuse is often associated with identity theft.
What are the Penalties for Different Types of Theft in Texas?
Shoplifting penalties in Texas vary depending on the value of the items stolen. In Texas, theft by shoplifting is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Additionally, Texas law allows businesses to sue shoplifters as compensation for their losses.
The penalties for robbery and burglary in Texas can vary depending on the severity of the crime. Generally, robbery is punishable by imprisonment for up to five years, and burglary is punishable by imprisonment for up to two years. However, if the offender commits a felony burglary or robbery, the punishment may be increased to a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.
The penalties for writing a hot check in Texas vary depending on the check amount and the county in which it is written. Generally, the penalties include a fine of up to $500 and up to 180 days in jail.
Under Texas law, the penalties for receiving stolen property depend on the property’s value in question. Penalties can range from a class C misdemeanor to a 1st-degree felony if the stolen item’s value is high enough.
Debit card abuse can carry a wide range of penalties in Texas. The most severe penalty is a felony charge, resulting in up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. However, a misdemeanor charge could result in up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
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