Package Theft

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Post and express mail have become a pivotal part of our lives. Unfortunately, the rise in post mail means more people are tempted to swipe items off their neighbors’ porches. Package or mail theft, however, is a serious crime with harsh penalties in the state of Texas. It can lead to felony-level charges depending on the circumstances, meaning possible time in prison.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for stealing another person’s mail, it’s important you have legal representation secured moving forward. The consequences associated with mail theft are nothing to take lightly. You could find yourself stuck with expensive fines and even possible incarceration. Learn more about the crime and it’s penalties by setting up an appointment with a skilled defense lawyer.

Defense Attorney for Mail Theft in Georgetown, Texas

If you or someone you know has been accused of stealing someone’s mail or package, then we suggest you have legal counsel on hand. The penalties for mail theft are incredibly serious and can mean time spent behind bars. Find quality and experienced representation with Price & Twine, PLLC.

Attorney Michael J. Price is a reputable theft and larceny defense attorney with years of experience and skills. He can utilize what he’s learned from years of practice towards your case. Discuss your legal options with him today by calling (512) 354-1880 to set up your first consultation free. Price & Twine, PLLC accepts clients throughout the greater Williamson County and Bell County area including Killeen, Temple, Belton, Harker Heights, Georgetown, Round Rock and Hutto.

Overview of Package Theft in Texas

Texas Package and Mail Theft Laws

Texas defines package or mail theft under the Texas Penal Code Section 31.20. The statute states a person commits a crime fi they intentionally appropriate mail from another person’s mailbox or premises without their consent and with intent to deprive them of that mail.

The word “mail” has a specific definition in a legal setting. It can refer to any letter, post card, package, sealed article or bag that:

  • Had been delivered by a mail carrier or delivery service and never arrived;
  • Had been left to be collected for delivery by a delivery service or common carrier

What Are the Consequences for Mail Theft in Texas?

The consequences for package theft depend on the circumstances of the case and how many addresses you appropriated mail from. Appropriating fewer than 10 addresses will result in a class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by:

  • Up to one year in jail; and
  • A fine of up to $4,000

Your charges can be enhanced to a state jail felony if the mail was appropriated from at least 10 addresses, but less than 30 addresses. The penalties for a state jail felony include:

  • Up to 2 years in a state jail facility; and
  • A fine of up to $10,000

The offense can be enhanced to a third-degree felony if the mail was appropriated from more than 30 addresses. The consequences for a third-degree felony include the following;

  • Up to 10 years in prison; and
  • A fine of up to $10,000

Statute of Limitations for Package Theft in Texas

All crimes in Texas have a time limit for when charges can be filed known as a statute of limitations. This means prosecutors only have a certain amount of time to file criminal charges against you. After the statute of limitations has passed, the district attorney’s office will be barred from filing charges.

In Texas, the statute of limitations is decided by the offense level of the crime. Because package and mail theft can be sentenced in multiple ways based on the circumstances, there is more than one statute of limitations that applies to the crime. If you’ve been convicted of a class A misdemeanor for mail theft, then your statute of limitations will be two years. If you were charged with a felony-level mail theft crime, then the statute of limitations is three years.

Additional Resources

Consumer Protection – Visit the official website for the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPS) to learn more about mail and package theft around the nation. Access the site to learn how to protect your mail, personal information and tips to avoid package and mail thieves.

Texas Laws for Mail Theft – Visit the official website for the Penal Code to learn more about mail theft and other larceny charges in the state of Texas. Access the site to read the elements, penalties and learn other theft and larceny offenses that are related to it.

Mail Theft Defense Lawyer in Williamson County, Texas

Have you been accused of mail or package theft? It’s imperative you seek legal counsel with years of experience. To find an attorney like that we suggest you contact Price & Twine, PLLC. Managing attorney Michael J. Price has years of defense practice under his belt and has the right resources and techniques needed to fight your charges.

Get in contact with attorney Price by calling (512) 354-1880 to set up your first consultation. From there, attorney Price can collect evidence, file motions and do whatever needed for your case. Price & Twine, PLLC accepts clients throughout the Williamson County and Bell County, Texas area.