While you know that stealing of any form, whether it’s taking a candy bar from a corner store or stealing a car from a family member, is illegal, you may not know that possession of stolen property is a serious criminal offense in Texas. In fact, many people don’t even realize this is a criminal offense until they are facing a charge for it. As such, if you have been charged with this offense, the following blog explores the different elements of this crime, as well as the penalties you can face. In addition, you’ll discover the importance of working with Houston theft defense attorneys to help you navigate these complicated legal matters.
Can the Prosecutor Say You Should Have Known the Property Was Stolen?
When you are charged with possession of stolen property, whether you purchased it, received it, or even simply stored it for a friend while they were moving, one of the most important elements to convicting someone of this offense is that they knew or should have known the property was stolen. As such, the prosecution may claim you should have known that the item you found yourself in possession of was stolen.
Most commonly, this refers to purchasing stolen goods. For example, if you buy a designer handbag on the corner of a street in Houston for $200, the prosecution can claim that most people would realize that the handbag was stolen. If you ask the seller if the bag was stolen and they tell you it is a knock-off or secondhand item, you may have a valid defense. However, if you later learn that the bag was, in fact, stolen, and you do not take measures to return the property to its rightful owner or the police, you can still face a charge. Essentially, if the deal seems too good to be true, it likely is, and continuing regardless can land you in serious legal trouble.
How Is Possession of Stolen Property Penalized in Texas?
Possession of stolen property is not an offense that is taken lightly in Georgia. In general, you’ll find that the value of the stolen property you are in possession of will determine your sentence in the event you are convicted. Under Texas law, any property valued under $2,500 will be charged as a misdemeanor, while property over that amount will be charged as a felony. Additionally, the felony charge will increase as the value of the item increases, meaning that property valued between $2,500 and $30,000 is a state jail felony, while property valued between $150,000 and $300,000 is a second-degree felony. As such, you will face serious jail time for each felony offense, with a state jail felony carrying a minimum of 180 days in jail.
As you can see, these penalties are incredibly harsh, which is why connecting with an experienced attorney with the Gonzalez Law Group is in your best interest during these difficult times. Our firm understands how complicated these matters can be to navigate, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you fight for the best possible outcome. When you need help, our team is ready. Contact us today to learn how we will fight for you.