Theft of Petroleum Products
Theft is a broad criminal charge in Texas that includes a range of offenses, from shoplifting clothes to stealing gas. Under Texas law, theft of petroleum is a crime that is prosecuted harshly. This felony offense can result in lengthy prison time, steep fines, a permanent criminal record, and an inability to pursue certain professions.
If you have been arrested for a theft offense in TX, it is important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. An arrest does not have to equal a conviction. The Benken Law Firm can help you tackle the legal challenge and obtain a reduction or dismissal of charges.
Texas Theft of Petroleum Products Attorney
Houston defense lawyer Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm understands that theft charges can ruin your reputation and your career. He is a skilled criminal defense attorney who will utilize his knowledge to vigorously defend your rights. If you have been arrested for theft of petroleum, do not wait any longer and contact The Benken Law Firm today.
To schedule your first free consultation, call (713) 223 – 4051 today. The Benken Law Firm defends clients in all areas throughout Harris County such as Braeswood Place, Uptown, Downtown Houston, The Heights, Sunnyside and many others.
Information Center
- Theft of Petroleum Products in Texas
- Penalties for Theft of Petroleum Products in Texas
- Additional Resources
Theft of Petroleum Products in Texas
Chapter 31 of the Texas Penal Code defines theft-related offenses. Theft of Petroleum Product, under § 31.19 of the Texas Penal Code, occurs when a person unlawfully appropriates a petroleum product with intent to deprive the owner of the petroleum product by:
- possessing, removing, delivering, receiving, purchasing, selling, moving, concealing, or transporting the petroleum product; or
- making, drilling, tapping or causing a hole to be drilled in a pipe, pipeline, or tank used to store or transport a petroleum product.
The statute is specific and states that appropriation of a petroleum product is unlawful if it is without the owner’s effective consent.
Penalties for Theft of Petroleum Products in Texas
Penalties and punishments for theft of petroleum products are as follows:
- State jail felony: If the total value of the petroleum product appropriated is less than $10,000. A state jail felony is punishable by 180 days to 2 years in jail and up $10,000 in fines.
- Third-degree felony: If the total value of the petroleum product appropriated is $10,000 or more but less than $100,000. A third-degree felony is punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
- Second-degree felony: If the total value of the petroleum product appropriated is $100,000 or more but less than $300,000. A second-degree felony is punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
- First-degree felony: If the total value of the petroleum product appropriated is $300,000 or more. A first-degree felony is punishable by 5 to 99 years of imprisonment and up to $10,000 in fines.
Additional Resources
Texas Penal Code: Theft of Petroleum Products – Access the official website for the Texas Penal Code to view section 31.19 which constitutes the Theft of Petroleum crime. You can see important information such as the precise legal definition of the crime and its penalties.
National Association for Shoplifting Prevention | NASP – Visit the official website for NASP, which provides specialized services and support to those who struggle with shoplifting compulsions.
Houston Theft of Petroleum Lawyer | Harris County, TX
If you have been accused of committing theft of petroleum, it is important you secure the counsel of a skilled legal professional in Texas. Depending on the circumstances of the case, you could face years in prison. Act quickly and retain the legal counsel of Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm who is a competent criminal defense attorney with more than 30 years of experience. He will make every effort to help you achieve the most favorable outcome to your case.
Schedule your first consultation with The Benken Law Firm today. Call (713) 223 – 4051. Brian Benken represents clients in all communities across Harris County. Some of these communities include, but are not limited to, Montrose, Midtown, Bellaire, River Oaks, Rice Military and many others.
