Crimes come in different varieties; some crimes are against the “person,” which means they are against an individual. An example of a crime against the person would be assault. Some crimes involve lying and deceit – these are classified as fraud-related crimes. Such crimes include immigration fraud, healthcare fraud, identity theft, embezzlement, and bankruptcy fraud among other white collar crimes. Then, there are “property crimes,” which are crimes against someone else’s property. Arson, criminal mischief (vandalism), reckless damage, interference with railroad property, and graffiti all fall under the category of property crimes. In Texas, property crimes are covered under Title 7, Chapter 28 of the Texas Penal Code. Property crimes at a glance:
- Arson (starting a fire with the intention of causing damage): This can be charged as a felony of the first or second degree depending on the facts of the case.
- Criminal mischief (vandalism): The penalties depend on the amount of financial loss for the property owner. This can be charged as a state jail felony, Class A, B, or C misdemeanor depending on the value of the damage.
- Reckless damage or destruction: This is when someone recklessly damages someone else’s property without the owner’s consent. This is a Class C misdemeanor.
- Interference with railroad property: This is self-explanatory – it’s when someone tampers with railroad property, or places an obstruction on railroad tracks, or unlawfully remains on railroad property. This can be a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the facts of the case.
- Graffiti: This can be a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the value of the damage to the owner’s property. For example, it’s a state jail felony if the amount of the loss ranged from $2,500 to less than 30,000.
Are you facing misdemeanor or felony charges for a property crime in Plano or Dallas? If so, contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC to set up a consultation. To learn more about our legal team and why we’re qualified to defend you, click here!
