Defending You Against Property Crime Charges

Property crime is a category  that covers a range of offenses relating to the theft or destruction of another individual’s property. A property crime can refer to anything from a low-level offense, such as shoplifting, to a serious felony, such as armed robbery or arson. A conviction in a property crime case can result in long-term jail time, substantial fines, and criminal bookings. If you are accused of a property crime, you need a criminal defense lawyer who can protect your rights and defend you in court. Jason Trumpler is a property crime attorney in Austin, TX, who has been practicing law since 1999. He has successfully defended clients in a number of theft and other property crime cases. Contact us online or call (512) 457-5200 to schedule a case evaluation and begin building a strong defense. 

What Constitutes a Property Crime?

A property crime is an illegal action that does not directly affect an individual but causes the destruction, reduction in value, or loss of a particular property. Property crimes vary in severity, depending on the amount stolen, the use of force or weapons, and the actual or potential bodily injury involved. Property crime is incredibly common in Texas, with one happening every 41 seconds.

Types of Property Crimes 

There are many types of actions that are considered property crimes, including:

• Arson: If law enforcement confirms a fire or explosion was started intentionally, it is considered arson. 
• Burglary: Burglary refers to unauthorized or illegal entry onto a property with the intent to commit a crime. 
• Check Fraud: Writing fraudulent checks is still a serious criminal offense in Texas and is punishable by incarceration. 
• Criminal Trespass: Entering a private property and remaining after receiving a notice to leave constitutes criminal trespass. Depending on the type of property, criminal trespass can result in a Class A misdemeanor.
• Larceny: Permanently depriving the owner of something valuable without permission is larceny. 
• Robbery: Using force or violence to steal property is a serious crime in Texas and can result in serious penalties.
• Shoplifting: When you conceal an item without the intent to pay for it, you are shoplifting.
• Theft: This crime covers a range of behaviors in which you deprive the rightful owner of their property. 
• Vandalism: Damaging or destroying property without permission is considered vandalism. In Texas, it is also referred to as criminal damage or mischief. 

If you are accused of a property crime, you need an aggressive criminal defense attorney who can protect you from receiving serious penalties or jail time. 

Charges for Property Crimes

The type of penalty you can receive for a property crime depends on the form and severity of the crime. Previous criminal history can also play a role, as well as the total value of the property affected. In general, if the value of property damage is low, the likely charge is a Class C misdemeanor. 

In Texas, Class C misdemeanors typically only carry a fine of $500 at most. However, Class B misdemeanors can involve up to six months of jail time or a fine of up to $2,000, and Class A misdemeanors can result in a year of jail time and up to $4,000 in fines. 

Attorney Jason Trumpler has been defending clients in Texas for almost 20 years and can provide the legal representation you need to protect your rights. 

Certain property crimes can result in a felony charge, which is significantly more serious than a misdemeanor. Some felony charges can result in life sentences. If you are facing an accusation of a property crime, you need a criminal defense lawyer who understands Texas law and can build a strong, aggressive defense. Attorney Jason Trumpler has been defending clients in Texas for almost 20 years and can provide the legal representation you need to protect your rights. 

Schedule a Case Evaluation Today

Our offices in Austin and Round Rock, TX, handle a range of criminal defense cases and can address all aspects of your property crime case. Over the years, we have successfully defended many types of clients from serious property crime charges. For more information about our services, contact us to speak to a member of our team today.