Misdemeanor Theft & Shoplifting Charges in Tarrant County

 Posted on December 01, 2025 in Theft

Facing a shoplifting or misdemeanor theft charge in Tarrant County is scary, especially if this is your first interaction with the police. Local prosecutors take retail theft cases seriously, and even a low-level accusation can create long-term consequences.

At The Dameron Law Firm, we work every day to protect the records and futures of clients charged with theft offenses in Tarrant County criminal courts. Call our Arlington, TX criminal defense attorney now.

What Counts as Misdemeanor Theft in Tarrant County?

Tarrant County prosecutions follow Texas Penal Code §31.03, which defines theft as unlawfully taking property with the intent to deprive the owner of it. In retail settings, this includes walking out with unpaid items, hiding merchandise, or switching price tags.

Local district attorneys often rely heavily on store video, loss-prevention reports, and witness statements. For many first-time offenders, diversion programs may be available, but they are never guaranteed.

What is the Penalty for a Misdemeanor Theft Conviction in Texas?

The specific punishment of misdemeanor theft depends on the value of the goods that were stolen.

• Under $100: Class C misdemeanor (a fine up to $500)

• $100–$749: Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000)

• $750–$2,499: Class A misdemeanor (up to one year in jail and a fine up to $4,000)

Tarrant County courts treat theft as a crime of moral turpitude, which means even a Class C conviction can affect employment, licensing, immigration status, and background checks. All of these misdemeanor classes create a permanent criminal record.

Felony Theft & State Jail Enhancements in Texas

Felony theft charges in Tarrant County frequently arise from higher-value cases or repeat conduct. Prosecutors can enhance a simple shoplifting allegation to a state jail felony if the defendant has two prior theft convictions, regardless of the value of the new offense. This enhancement is aggressively used in local courts.

Felony punishment ranges also depend on the value of the stolen goods and include:

• $2,500–$29,999: State Jail Felony (six months to two years in a state jail facility and a fine up to $10,000)

• $30,000–$149,999: Third-degree felony (two to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000)

• $150,000–$299,999: Second-degree felony (two to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000)

• $300,000 or more: First-degree felony (five to 99 years or life in prison and a fine up to $10,000)

Even a low-value theft with two priors can result in a state jail felony.

Prosecuting Organized Retail Theft is A Growing Focus in Tarrant County

Organized retail theft (ORT) continues to receive increased attention from Tarrant County law enforcement, especially in areas such as Alliance, the Parks Mall, and big-box retailers. ORT applies when theft is committed with others, in repeated incidents, or as part of a coordinated effort. Prosecutors often combine the value of multiple thefts, resulting in more serious felony charges.

FAQs for Tarrant County Theft Cases

• Can store security detain you for concealment before you leave the store? Yes. Texas law allows detention when store staff reasonably believe you concealed merchandise.

• Does returning the property prevent prosecution? No. Returning items does not stop criminal charges.

• Do civil demand letters resolve the criminal case? No. Civil penalties are separate from criminal prosecution.

• Can two prior theft convictions elevate a new misdemeanor to a felony? Yes. Texas law allows felony enhancement regardless of the value of the new offense.

• How do organized retail theft (ORT) charges work? Prosecutors use video and aggregated theft amounts to file higher-level charges.

Facing Theft Charges? Meet with Our Tarrant County Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are charged with misdemeanor theft, felony theft, or organized retail theft in Tarrant County, you need a defense lawyer who understands local courts and prosecutors. Our Arlington, TX criminal defense lawyer at The Dameron Law Firm provides strategic, experienced representation to pursue the best outcome possible. Call 817-222-0624 now for a free consultation.