Common Hidalgo County Theft Crimes
Theft crime is a general term used to describe offenses that involve the taking of another person's property without their consent and with the intention to permanently deprive them of it.
Theft offenses are also often referred to as property offenses. Common theft crimes include:
- Shoplifting - taking goods away from a shop without paying
- Larceny - taking someone's personal property
- Auto theft - theft of a motor vehicle
- Robbery - where the property is taken through the actual or threatened use of physical force
Depending on the seriousness of the allegations, theft crimes can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. Aggravating circumstances include the type of property taken, the value of the property, and the offender's previous convictions for similar offenses.
If you have been accused of a theft crime, you need solid criminal defense representation. At The Law Office of Alejandro Muñoz, PLLC, we have the experience and tools to defend you. Call 956-348-2121 or fill out an online contact form today to schedule a free consultation.
Consequences of a Theft Conviction in Texas
The sentences for theft convictions vary depending on the circumstances of the case and the seriousness of the offending. Possible penalties include:
- Fines
- Restitution to the victim to compensate for the loss of property
- Probation
- Community service
- Parole
- Imprisonment
A conviction for a theft offense can also have long-lasting impacts on an offender's life beyond their sentence, especially in terms of finding employment. For example, a potential employer who runs a background check may view someone with a theft conviction as dishonest and be reluctant to hire them.
Common Defenses to Texas Theft Charges
The potential defenses available to a defendant facing a theft charge depend on the specific circumstances of their case. Some common defenses include belief of ownership, return of property, entrapment, intoxication, and duress.
Belief of Ownership or Claim of Right
Where a defendant believes in good faith (i.e. honestly) that the property they took was theirs or they had a valid claim to it, they may be able to defend a theft charge. A defendant usually needs to provide some evidence to support their claim of belief of ownership.
Return of Property
If a defendant intended to return the property when they initially took it, they may also be able to defend the charge. However, later returning the property to avoid being charged or convicted of a theft offense is not a defense. This may be a factor the court takes into account when sentencing an offender.
Entrapment
Law enforcement authorities can run a sting operation to try and catch suspected criminals. However, they cannot induce a defendant to commit an offense they otherwise would not have committed. If a defendant takes any property as a result of being induced by law enforcement, they may be able to argue the defense of entrapment.
Duress
A defendant may be able to challenge a theft charge if they were forced to take the property by another person, for example, because of threats or blackmail. To argue duress, a defendant needs to show they committed the act as a result of an immediate and inescapable threat of bodily harm or death.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney in Hidalgo County
Theft crimes may not seem serious, but they are. If you've been accused of committing a theft crime, you should speak to a defense attorney at The Law Office of Alejandro Muñoz, PLLC immediately.
Our attorneys will review your case and explain your options, including any legal defenses that may be available to you. They can also help you prepare a strong defense and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Call 956-348-2121 or submit an online form today, and we will schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.