Experienced Theft Crimes Attorney in Odessa TX

Theft crimes in Texas can range from taking a pair of sunglasses from a department store to embezzlement of millions of dollars. The penalties for theft crimes depend on the value of the items or property taken, the individual's criminal history, and type of property taken.

For many people arrested for a theft crime in Texas, it is their first run-in with the law that could put them in jail. This frightening situation can make many people agree to a plea deal, even if they are innocent of the criminal charges. If you were arrested for a theft crime, before pleading guilty, talk to your experienced Odessa criminal defense lawyer to understand your rights and defenses.

Texas Theft Crimes

Theft crimes can be categorized based on the type of theft, including:  

  • Shoplifting
  • Vehicle Theft
  • Theft of Service
  • Theft of Trade Secrets
  • Organized Retail Theft
  • Robbery
  • Identity Theft
  • Embezzlement
  • Cargo Theft.

Theft Crime Penalties in Texas

In general, Texas theft crime classification and penalties are based on the value of the property taken or stolen, as indicated in the below table.

Value of Property

Theft Classification

Jail Time

Fines

Less than $100

Class C Misdemeanor

--

Up to $500

$100 or more but less than $750

Class B Misdemeanor

Up to 180 Days

Up to $2,000

$750 or more but less than $2,500

Class A Misdemeanor

Up to 1 Year

Up to $4,000

$2.500 or more but less than $30,000,

State Jail Felony

180 Days to 2 Years

Up to $10,000

$30,000 or more but less than $150,000

3rd Degree Felony

2 to 10 Years

Up to $10,000

$150,000 or more but less than $300,000

2nd Degree Felony

2 to 20 Years

Up to $10,000

$300,000 or more

1st Degree Felony

5 to 99 Years

Up to $10,000

Theft of certain types of property does not depend on the value. For example, the theft of a firearm is a state jail felony, no matter what the value of the firearm may be. Other theft charges based on the type of property include where the stolen property is:

  • Driver's license;
  • From a grave;
  • Official ballot;
  • Scrap metal; or
  • Livestock.

Defenses to Criminal Theft Charges in Odessa

The prosecutor in your case may make it seem like you have no chance but to plead guilty. However, there may be strong defenses in your case to challenge the charges in court or get the evidence thrown out to set you free.

Talk to your Odessa criminal defense lawyer about the best defenses in your case, which may include:

  • The defendant was the rightful owner of the property;
  • The owner gave consent for the defendant to take or use the property;
  • The alleged victim lied about the defendant taking the property;
  • The defendant never intended to deprive the owner of the property;
  • The identity of the defendant was mistaken for another person;
  • The fair market value of the property is too high; or
  • The police violated the defendant's rights against unlawful search and seizure.

Odessa Criminal Theft Defense Lawyer

An experienced criminal defense attorney understands how to build a strong defense that gives you the best shot at a favorable outcome, including getting charges reduced or dropped. If you've been accused of criminal theft in Odessa, Texas, the Law Office of E. Jason Leach, PLLC is here to fight for you.

Jason Leach is a Board Certified criminal defense attorney that has dedicated his law practice to defending the accused. To set up a free consultation, contact the Law Office of E. Jason Leach today at 432.552.7000.

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