Blog Post
Theft Charges in Arlington, Tx
3/21/2026
Under the Texas Penal Code, theft is defined as unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The seriousness of the charge depends largely on the value of the property and the surrounding circumstances.
Understanding how your case is classified is the first step in building a strong, strategic defense.
Petty Theft vs. Felony Theft in Texas
Texas does not formally use the terms “petty theft” and “grand theft” in its statutes, but theft offenses are categorized by value and charged accordingly.
Class C Misdemeanor
Property valued at less than $100
Punishable by a fine up to $500
No jail time
Class B & Class A Misdemeanors
$100–$749 (Class B)
$750–$2,499 (Class A)
Up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $4,000
State Jail Felony
$2,500–$29,999
180 days to 2 years in state jail
Fines up to $10,000
Third-Degree Felony
$30,000–$149,999
2 to 10 years in prison
Second-Degree Felony
$150,000–$299,999
2 to 20 years in prison
First-Degree Felony
$300,000 or more
5 to 99 years or life in prison
Additional factors—such as prior convictions, theft from elderly individuals, or theft of firearms—can elevate charges regardless of value.
Arlington Criminal Attorneys
3901 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 200
Arlington, TX 76018