In Houston, auto theft is a growing law enforcement problem that continues to plague the region. With international demand for high-end automobiles showing no signs of subsiding and with the profitability of chop-shops, the problem is expected to become worse.
The Houston Police Department and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office both have criminal investigation divisions that are specifically dedicated to addressing car thefts and persons suspected of being involved in auto-theft schemes.
If you’re being investigated or were arrested for auto-theft, you have legal options and rights.
Attorney Emily Detoto will represent you and fight for your freedom if you or a loved one was arrested for auto-theft or charged with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle.
To schedule a meeting with our legal team call us at 713-227-2244.
Automobile Theft & Texas Law
Theft & Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle
In the State of Texas, auto theft can be prosecuted as either a general theft crime based on the value of the automobile or under the Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle statute.
When a person is charged with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle the State of Texas isn’t required to prove that defendant stole the vehicle or intended to steal the automobile. In fact, it only means that the vehicle was used without the owner’s permission.
The criminal charge will apply regardless of whether or not the defendant intended to return the vehicle. A criminal charge under this statute may be classified as either a State Jail Felony or a Third Degree Felony. An auto-theft prosecuted under the general theft statute is subject to criminal classification based on the value of the vehicle.
To schedule a meeting with Attorney Emily Detoto call us at 713-227-2244.
Arrested for Auto Theft in Houston?
Attorney Emily Detoto Will Defend You
If you’re convicted for theft or Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (UUMV) you’ll be forced to contend with jail time, monetary fines, and a criminal record that may impede your progress in life. Criminal charges of this nature are especially detrimental to the lives of young people.
Houston criminal law attorney Emily Detoto is experienced defending people accused of auto-theft, and knows the proper method to effectively fight such charges. A number of auto-theft cases are based on a misunderstanding while others are deliberate criminal acts.
In the case of a auto-theft charges based on a misunderstanding, with victim cooperation, it may be possible to have the case dismissed.
In cases of deliberate auto-theft it may be possible to avoid jail-time or even beat the charge outright.
To learn more about the options available to you based on the circumstances of your case in particular, contact The Law Office of Emily Detoto. Attorney Emily Detoto is a Board Certified® criminal-law attorney and never quits on a client. To schedule a meeting with Attorney Emily Detoto contact our office at 713-227-2244.