PENALTIES FOR THEFT IN FORT WORTH

Are you facing theft-related charges in Fort Worth or anywhere else in Texas? If so, you’ll be curious to know how theft charges are prosecuted in the Lone Star State. You’ll also want to know the penalties involved.

Theft offenses are covered under Title 7, Chapter 31 of the Texas Penal Code. Under Chapter 31, theft can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value of the property stolen. Let’s take a closer look at theft under Section 31.03 of the Penal Code and its classifications.

• If the value of the property stolen is less than $100, theft is classified as a Class C misdemeanor.
• If the value of the property stolen is less than $100 or more but less than $750, it’s a Class B misdemeanor.
• If the property stolen is worth $750 or more but less than $2,500, it’s a Class A misdemeanor.
• If the property stolen is worth $2,500 or more but less than $30,000, it’s a state jail felony.
• If the property stolen is worth $30,000 or more but less than $150,000, it’s a third-degree felony.
• If the property stolen is worth $150,000 or more but less than $300,000, it’s a felony of the second degree.
• If the property stolen is worth $300,000 or more, it’s a felony of the first degree.

In Texas, various theft-related offenses fall under Sect. 31.03, including shoplifting. The penalties depend on the degree of misdemeanor or felony charged.

A Class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine not to exceed $100.

A Class B misdemeanor is punishable by a fine not to exceed $2,000 and by up to 180 days in jail.

A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by a fine not to exceed $4,000 and by up to one year in jail.

The fine for all felony theft offenses is up to a $10,000 fine; however, the term of imprisonment ranges from 180 days to 99 years in prison. To learn more about the fines and sentencing for crimes in Texas, click here.

Recommended reading: Community Supervision in Tarrant County