While the public is often made aware of the violent crimes that occur in their communities because homicides, armed robberies, and the like are often discussed on the television news and in the newspapers, there are many other crimes which can go unnoticed, even by the victims, for weeks or even months at a time. Identity theft is one such crime, and it has been committed with increasing frequency as electronic storage and transmission of all kinds of data have become more and more commonplace. In Texas, as in many other places, identity theft is a felony. If you have been accused of the crime of identity theft, it is essential that you educate yourself about the elements of the crime and the possible consequences of a conviction and that you consult with an experienced Texas Criminal Defense Attorney regarding your case.
Identity theft cases in Texas involve the possession or use of personal identifying information that is not your own with the intent to harm or defraud another person. There are many types of personal identifying information, including your social security number, name, employment information, telephone number, physical address, social media usernames and passwords, bank account numbers, PIN numbers, and email addresses and passwords.
Individuals who have been charged with identity theft in Texas have a few defenses which may be available to them based upon the circumstances of their cases. The first of these defenses is that they lacked the requisite intent. If you had another person’s identifying information in your possession but you did not intend to use it to harm or deceive anyone, you have not committed the crime of identity theft. Likewise, if you were accused of obtaining or possessing someone else’s identifying information when you had not in fact done so, you have not committed the crime of identity theft.
In Texas, identity theft is a felony. The penalties for identity theft are based upon the number of items that the defendant transferred, possessed, or obtained by using personal identifying information that was not their own. Defendants who are convicted of identity theft are likely to be incarcerated and required to pay a fine. Sentences for identity theft can range from one hundred and eighty days to ninety nine years, and fines can be as high as ten thousand dollars. Minors who are convicted of identity theft may receive less severe consequences than adults who are convicted of the same crime.
When someone is accused of identity theft, they need an experienced attorney in their corner to help them present your best case. As an identity theft defendant, you deserve to have someone on your side who has the knowledge and experience to build and present a successful case on your behalf. To learn more about how Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Alex Tyra can serve you, call (903) 753-7499 to set up a free, initial consultation. You may also contact us through our website, via the online contact form.
