When people take property and/or assets that do not belong to them through stealing, deception or depriving another, Texas law enforcement may charge them with theft. Also referred to as larceny, theft does not always involve directly taking property or assets. It can include the indirect transfer of property or stealing of information.
Some may not realize that there are several different types of activities defined as theft. If convicted, one may face hefty fines and possible jail time. These charges can be daunting, and it may help to become informed about the types of theft, as well as potential penalties.
What are the types of theft?
According to Texas state statutes, theft charges may include the following:
- Writing bad checks
- Shoplifting
- Robbery or aggravated robbery
- Extortion
- Burglary
- Embezzlement
Theft also includes sharing trade secrets, or exchanging confidential information with competing companies. Extortion, another type of theft, involves threatening another party that a negative action will occur unless he or she transfers money and/or property to someone else’s account.
It does not end there. Those who purchase stolen property may face charges as well.
What are potential penalties?
Penalties differ depending on the total value of the property taken, as well as the circumstances surrounding the situation. For example, if the items were less than $50, the state may charge you with a Class C misdemeanor. If, however, the total amount taken was more than $200,000, one could face a first-degree felony, which comes with harsher penalties.
When people know the hazards and potential outcomes of theft, they may be able to minimize the consequences they may face.