Though you may assume that the instances of fraud you see on TV and in movies are relegated to the big screen, this is far from the truth. In reality, it’s estimated that there was over 12.5 billion dollars worth of fraudulent activity to occurred in 2024. As such, the government takes these instances very seriously, meaning those charged with this crime are heavily penalized. If you are facing charges for credit card fraud in Texas, it’s in your best interest to keep reading to understand the penalties you can face for this offense. You’ll also learn the importance of working with a Houston white collar crimes defense attorney to help you fight for the best possible outcome.
What Constitutes Credit Card Fraud in Texas?
In Texas, credit card fraud occurs any time someone, other than the cardholder or someone they have provided consent to use the card, uses a credit card in someone else’s name. However, any attempt to use a stolen credit card that they know is stolen, purchase a card from someone other than the issuer, sell a credit card, or create a fictitious card constitutes credit card fraud. Additionally, using a card not in your name to purchase something on behalf of the cardholder, despite knowing they cannot afford the purchase, also constitutes fraudulent behavior.
It’s also considered credit card fraud for a merchant to accept a card they know is false with the intent to defraud the card issuer.
What Penalties Can I Face if Convicted?
If you are convicted of credit card fraud in Oklahoma, the penalties you can face will depend on the value of the fraud. Typically, you’ll face a state jail felony for fraudulent activity involving transactions between $2,500 and $30,000. This carries between 180 days and two years in jail, and fines of up to $10,000.
For fraud involving more than $30,000 but less than $150,000, the state classifies this as a third-degree felony, carrying between two and ten years in jail. Fraud of goods or services between $150,00 and $300,000 warrants a second degree felony, with two to twenty years in jail as a possibility, while a first degree felony is charged any time the amount is over $300,000. This is the most serious offense, and as such, the penalties include five years to life in prison.
You should also note that you can face enhanced penalties depending on the victim of the crime. For example, if you take advantage of a senior citizen or the fraud was in direct relation to child exploitation, the penalties can be increased to reflect the severity of the offense.
As you can see, the penalties imposed in Texas for credit card fraud can be serious, which is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced criminal defense attorney with the Gonzalez Law Group. We understand how overwhelming these matters can be to navigate on your own, which is why we are committed to helping you fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today to learn more.