Theft Crimes

If you’ve been accused of stealing or theft, these are serious criminal charges. Depending on what it is you are accused of stealing, if convicted you could face heavy fines, restitution, and mandatory jail time. Theft charges can stay on your record permanently, discrediting you and preventing you from being hired or promoted in your job, and may even prevent you from obtaining student loans or a mortgage. If you’ve been accused of theft, you need an attorney willing to aggressively defend you against these charges. At the Wheeler Law Office, our attorneys our experienced in dealing with the prosecutor’s office and representing clients against serious charges such as theft. We can provide the strong legal defense you need against these charges.

Denton County Theft Offenses

Under the Texas Penal Code, Title 7, Chapter 31, theft related offenses can involve both the theft of property as well as services. Some common theft offenses include:

  • Retail theft
  • Theft of services, such as involving utility companies
  • Theft by deception
  • Automobile theft
  • Theft of another’s belongings through breaking and entering
  • Bank fraud
  • Internet fraud
  • Medicaid or Food Stamp fraud
  • Identity theft
  • Embezzlement
  • Extortion

Even if you weren’t the person who committed the theft, you could find yourself facing serious theft charges for simply receiving stolen goods or services, or for covering up the existence of any stolen items.

Penalties for Theft Crimes

Penalties for theft crimes vary according to the amount of goods or services allegedly stolen, as well as any aggravating factors, such as if the suspect was armed. Under Title 7 of the Texas Penal Code, Section 31.03 (e), classification of theft offenses include:

  • Property Valued under $50: Class C misdemeanor, punishable by fines
  • Property Valued Over $50 but less than $500: Class B misdemeanor, punishable by fines and jail time up to 180 days
  • Property Valued Over $500 but less than $1,500: Class A misdemeanor, punishable by fines and up to a year in prison

Thefts involving greater amounts greater than $1,500, or involving the use of a gun, will be classified as a felony. Depending on the circumstances and any prior convictions, felony charges can carry heavy fines and mandatory imprisonment for 5 years and more.

Contact Our Experienced Theft Defense Attorney Today

If you’ve been accused of stealing or theft, or of receiving stolen goods or services, contact Wheeler Law Office immediately. Our lead counsel brings experience as a former prosecutor and knowledge of the tactics the D.A.’s office uses to get convictions to aggressively defend clients facing theft charges. These types are charges are a serious matter, and carry heavy fines and potential jail time. They can remain permanently on your record, following throughout your life and causing damage to your reputation. Contact our experienced Denton theft attorney right away for a free, initial consultation. We offer flat fee pricing and payment plans affordable for any budget. When you’re facing theft charges, you can’t afford not to have a serious attorney aggressively defending your case. Call the Wheeler Law Office today at (940) 465-3178.