Mail Theft
It may be hard to believe but stealing packages in Texas carries dire consequences. Since mail is an important part of our lives, The State of Texas has implemented laws that punish individuals who steal others’ mail. This act is referred to as mail theft and can result in steep fines and prison time
Being charged with a crime and facing imprisonment upon conviction is frightening. With your reputation, job, finances, and freedom on the line, it is vital that you seek the experienced legal counsel of The Benken Law Firm today.
Texas Mail Theft Attorney
If you have been accused of mail theft in Texas, contact The Benken Law Firm. Attorney Brian Benken understands the distressing consequences of a theft conviction and the desperation you may feel if you face charges. He is prepared to utilize his years of experience, knowledge, and resources to preserve your freedom.
The Benken Law Firm defends clients of mail theft in every area across Harris County and surrounding counties such as West University Place, Spring Valley Village, Goldcrest, Houston, Greater East End, and many more. To schedule a free case consultation with The Benken Law Firm, call (713) 223 - 4051 today.
Information Center
What is Mail Theft?
Under Texas Penal Code 31.20 an individual may be charged with mail theft if he or she intentionally appropriates mail from another person’s mailbox or premises without the effective consent of the addressee and with intent to deprive them of mail.
The term “mail” refers to any letter, postal card, package, bag, or other sealed article that:
- Was delivered by a common carrier or delivery service and not yet received by the addressee; or
- Has been left to be collected for delivery by a common carrier or delivery service.
Penalties for Mail Theft in Texas
The penalties for mail theft in Texas rely on the specific facts of the case and how many addresses the defendant appropriated mail from. If the amount of stolen mail equals fewer than 10 addresses, the charge is categorized as a class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines.
Mail theft is escalated to a state jail felony if the mail is appropriated from at least 10 but fewer than 30 addressees. A state jail felony in Texas can result in up to 2 years in a state jail facility and up to $10,000 in fines.
The charges for mail theft can be elevated even further if the defendant stole mail from more than 30 addresses. A third-degree felony is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
Additional Resources
Texas Penal Code: Mail Theft – Visit the official website for the Texas Penal Code to familiarize yourself with Texas’ mail theft law. You can view penalties for the offense and other important information.
FBI: Robbery – Access the official website for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to view 2019 statistics for robbery. You can view specific statistics for different locations such as streets/highways, commercial houses, and residences.
Houston Mail Theft Attorney | Harris County, TX
If you or someone you know has been charged with mail theft, attorney Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm can offer skilled legal guidance. He is a knowledgeable defense attorney with over 30 years of experience and a licensed private investigator who knows how to handle investigations and the criminal process.
If you would like to schedule a time to speak with The Benken Law Firm about the specifics of your case, call (713) 223 – 4051. The Benken Law Firm represents clients in all communities in Harris County and surrounding counties such as the Greater East End, Lawndale, River Oaks, Hedwig Village, and many more.
