Experienced Defense Attorney in Theft Charges
A theft charge can arise from far more than an allegation of shoplifting. Texas law covers a wide range of situations involving property, money, or services, and the value of what was allegedly taken often determines how the case is charged. While some theft offenses are misdemeanors, others can quickly become serious felonies with lasting consequences.
At Odefey, Witte, Wall, & Villafranca, LLP, attorney Jordan G. Fries represents individuals charged with theft offenses throughout Victoria, Port Lavaca, and surrounding South Texas communities. As a former prosecutor, he understands how these cases are evaluated and why the details surrounding ownership, intent, and value often become the most important issues in the case.
Not every theft case involves someone being caught leaving a store with unpaid merchandise.
Prosecutors may pursue theft charges in many different situations, including:
One issue that often surprises people is that the value assigned to the property can dramatically affect the charge. Investigators and prosecutors frequently rely on receipts, invoices, appraisals, or replacement costs to determine value, but those figures are not always as straightforward as they appear. Whether the property’s value has been accurately calculated can significantly influence the severity of the case.
The consequences of a theft conviction depend largely on the value of the property involved and any prior criminal history.
A conviction may result in:
Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can create challenges long after the criminal case has ended, particularly for jobs that require trust or financial responsibility.
The first question in many theft cases is whether prosecutors can actually prove the required intent. Misunderstandings, ownership disputes, mistakes at self-checkout, or disagreements over payment can sometimes appear much different when viewed in context than they do in an offense report.
Jordan reviews surveillance footage, receipts, witness statements, inventory records, and electronic communications to understand what actually occurred. He also examines how investigators determined the value of the property and whether the available evidence supports the allegations made by the prosecution. In many cases, the details surrounding ownership and intent are just as important as the allegation that property was taken.
Theft charges may seem straightforward, but they often involve questions that are not answered by a police report alone.
Jordan Fries brings the perspective of a former felony prosecutor who understands how theft cases are charged, negotiated, and presented in court. He provides practical guidance and a careful evaluation of the evidence so clients can make informed decisions throughout the criminal process.
