Taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent is a serious crime everywhere, the penalties and corresponding total bail amount can vary widely.
Under Texas Penal Codes, theft is the act of intentionally taking or exercising control over another person’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. Theft of a vehicle is a serious crime that can result in up to 180 days in jail for a Class C misdemeanor, up to 2 years in jail for a state jail felony, or up to 10 years in prison for a third-degree felony.
Law enforcement sometimes charges auto theft under its general theft laws. Depending on the value of the stolen property, the theft charge can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.
For example, if the stolen vehicle is valued at less than $2,500, the charge would likely be a Class C misdemeanor, which can result in a fine of up to $500. If the stolen vehicle is valued between $2,500 and $30,000, the charge would likely be a state jail felony, which can result in up to 2 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. If the stolen vehicle is valued at more than $30,000, the charge is usually a third-degree felony, which can result in up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 or more.
In addition to the value of the stolen item or items, the charge can also be elevated to a higher degree felony if the theft involved certain aggravating factors, such as the use of a deadly weapon, causing bodily injury to another person, or if the theft was committed by a public servant or someone who was already on probation or parole.
In addition to the potential fines and years in prison, a theft conviction will mean the defendant now possesses a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences for someone’s personal and professional life.
If you have been charged with the theft of a vehicle or any other stolen property, it is important to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can provide you with a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case.
What is the Bond for Theft of a Vehicle in Texas?
If you or some you know are facing vehicle theft charges you may be wondering what the price of a bail bond for theft of a vehicle in Texas is.
Bail is the money a defendant pays to leave jail before trial. A bond is a written agreement between the defendant and a local bail bondsman. If the defendant fails to show up for court, the bondsman will then be liable to the court for the total bail amount. In order to secure a bond from a bail bond agent, the defendant pays the bondsman a non-refundable fee that is equal to 10% of the total bail amount. Once the bond has been posted, the defendant will then be released from jail until trial.
The total bail amount for vehicle theft charges depends on several factors, including the value of the stolen property and the defendant’s criminal history.
If you have been given a total bail amount you can use our motor vehicle theft bail bond calculator to determine the amount you’ll need to pay a bail bond agent to post bond on your behalf.