By Jeff Kennedy
Were You Charged With Theft Of An Automobile?
Being charged with auto theft in Texas is a felony offense, which can lead to serious jail time, fines and a criminal record.
Over the past few years, the city of Fort worth has seen an increase in stolen cars. Which has intensified law enforcement efforts in combatting automobile theft. This means prosecutors are also working with law enforcement to intensify their efforts as well.
This is why you need a criminal defense attorney with experience handling auto theft charges. Majority of car thefts will be felony charges, which means the repercussions can be serious if you do not have an experienced attorney on your side.
Charges Similar To Automobile Theft:
- Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle
- Burglary Of A Vehicle
With a UUMV charge the state does not have to prove your intention to keep the vehicle. With theft they have to prove intention to keep the vehicle. Penalties vary with UUMV being a felony and Burglary of a vehicle a misdemeanor to felony.
Automobile Theft Laws in Texas Sec. 31.03
In Texas auto theft falls under the general theft statute located here Section 31.03 of the Texas Penal Code.
Sec. 31.03. THEFT. (a) A person commits an offense if he unlawfully appropriates property with intent to deprive the owner of property.
- (b) Appropriation of property is unlawful if:
- (1) it is without the owner’s effective consent;
- (2) the property is stolen and the actor appropriates the property knowing it was stolen by another; or
- (3) property in the custody of any law enforcement agency was explicitly represented by any law enforcement agent to the actor as being stolen and the actor appropriates the property believing it was stolen by another.
Simply put, you can be charged with theft if you take ownership of property that is not yours, without the intention of giving it back. Another scenario is taking ownership of stolen property knowingly.
Here are some scenarios where you can be charged with theft:
- Taking ownership of a vehicle that is not yours;
- Operating a vehicle without the owners consent;
- Have taken ownership of a vehicle without transferring the title to your name;
- Borrow or rent a car without returning it;
- Purchase a vehicle that is stolen (knowingly);
Automobile Theft Penalties in Texas
The level of offense is based upon the vehicles values. Since most vehicles are valued over $2,500.00, you are most likely facing a felony charge.
| Substance | Offense Level | Potential Jail or Prison Time | Fine |
| $100 or less | Class C Misdemeanor | No Jail Time | Up to $500 |
| $100 – $749 | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 Days | Up to $2,000 |
| $750 – $2,499 | Class A Misdemeanor | Up To 1 Year | Up to $4,000 |
| $2,500 – $29,999 | State Jail Felony | 180 Days – 2 Years | Up to $10,000 |
| $30,000 – $149,999 | Third-Degree Felony | 2-10 Years | Up to $10,000 |
| $150,000 to $299,999 | Second-Degree Felony | 2-20 Years | Up to $10,000 |
| $300,000 or more | First-Degree Felony | 5-99 years | Up to $10,000 |
There are many consequences of a conviction—spending time in prison is only one of them. Your entire life can be turned upside down if you are convicted of a felony.
If you have been charged, we can provide you with a free consultation and case review. Just give us a call today to get started.
During your consultation we will answer your questions, discuss your options and what to expect from the court system, including how we can build a defense for you.
