Felony theft in Texas occurs when you unlawfully take property or services valued above a specific monetary threshold. State law categorizes theft offenses based on the value involved. Once the value surpasses a certain level, the offense escalates from a misdemeanor to a felony.
When theft becomes a felony
Texas law classifies theft as a felony when the value of the stolen items reaches $2,500 or more. The degree of felony depends on the value involved. Theft ranging from $2,500 to $29,999 qualifies as a state jail felony. When the value rises to $30,000 or higher, the offense becomes a third-, second-, or first-degree felony. Additionally, stealing firearms or official ballots results in felony charges regardless of their monetary worth.
Felony theft penalties in Texas
Felony theft carries severe legal consequences. A state jail felony can lead to a sentence of up to two years in a state jail facility and a fine of up to $10,000. A third-degree felony results in two to ten years in prison. A second-degree felony allows for a sentence of up to 20 years. A first-degree felony involves imprisonment ranging from five to 99 years. Beyond incarceration, a felony conviction significantly impacts employment prospects and access to housing.
Aggravating factors that raise charges
Certain circumstances can elevate the severity of a theft charge. Prior theft convictions may increase a misdemeanor to a felony offense. Stealing from a nonprofit organization, an elderly individual, or a government entity also leads to enhanced charges. The method used to commit the theft matters. Using a weapon or causing property damage during the incident can result in more serious penalties.
What to understand before acting
If someone accuses you of theft, the value of the property and the way it was taken play key roles in the charges you may face. Understanding when theft qualifies as a felony helps you grasp the legal stakes. Texas law considers both the item involved and the conduct during the act.
