Penalties for Theft in Texas

Theft is a broad criminal offense in Texas which includes a wide array of crimes, such as shoplifting, bouncing checks, larceny, and buying stolen property.

The punishment for these crimes is relative to the value of the item stolen. The more value the item has, the higher the penalty for stealing it. If a person is caught with more than one stolen item all the values are added together for the sake of the punishment.

The following are the Texas theft penalties based on the amount stolen:

• Less than $50, or less than $20 if by check – Class C misdemeanor
  • A fine of up to $500
• $50 or more but less than $500, or $20 or more but less than $500 if by check – Class B misdemeanor
  • Maximum county jail sentence of 180 days
  • A fine of up to $2,000
• $500 or more but less than $1,500 – Class A misdemeanor
  • Maximum county jail sentence of one year
  • A fine of up to $4,000
• $1,500 or more but less than $20,000 – State jail felony
  • A state jail sentence ranging from 180 days to two years
  • A fine of up to $10,000
• $20,000 or more but less than $100,000 – Third-degree felony
  • A prison sentence between two and 10 years
  • A fine of up to $10,000
• $100,000 or more but less than $200,000 – Second-degree felony
  • A prison sentence between two and 20 years
  • A fine of up to $10,000
• $200,000 or more – First-degree felony
  • A prison sentence between five and 99 years
  • A fine of up to $10,000

Keep in mind, the penalties listed above can also be enhanced under specific conditions. For example, a Class B and C misdemeanor theft charge can increase one level if an offender has a prior theft conviction, while a Class A misdemeanor can become a state jail felony if an offender has two prior theft convictions.

If you were arrested for theft, contact our Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer at The Clark Law Firm and request a complimentary consultation today.