THEFT PROP on Texas arrest paperwork, a bond sheet, or a court docket means: Theft of Property (value ladder), charged under Texas Penal Code § 31.03.

Charge level: Class C misdemeanor through first-degree felony, by value

Punishment range: Under $100: Class C (fine only). $100-$750: Class B. $750-$2,500: Class A. $2,500-$30,000: state jail felony. $30,000-$150,000: third-degree felony. $150,000-$300,000: second-degree felony. $300,000+: first-degree felony

What this charge really means

Your paperwork will show the alleged value bracket (e.g., THEFT PROP >=$750<$2,500). Value is an element the state must prove — fair market value at the time, not retail sticker price — and bracket-line cases are genuinely winnable on valuation alone. Theft is also a crime of moral turpitude: even a Class C conviction can follow you into job applications and immigration matters, so 'just paying the ticket' is usually a mistake.

Common questions

How is the value determined?

Fair market value at the time of the offense — which is contestable. Depreciation, condition, and actual resale value can move a case below a bracket line and drop the charge level.

Is theft under $100 still worth fighting?

Yes. Theft is a crime of moral turpitude — a conviction at any level damages employment, licensing, and immigration outcomes. Diversion or dismissal is the goal even on a Class C.

What if I’m accused of shoplifting with priors?

Two prior theft convictions can enhance even a small theft to a state jail felony. Priors drive these cases — tell your attorney about your full history immediately.

Charged with THEFT PROP? Move fast.

Charges like this are shaped in the first weeks — evidence gets preserved or lost, and early counsel changes outcomes. Our attorneys are former police officers who know how these cases are built. Get a free consultation — we’ll review the facts, explain your realistic options, and quote a flat fee. Available 24/7.

This page is general legal information for Texas, not legal advice about your specific case. Penalty ranges can change with enhancements, priors, and case-specific facts. Last reviewed July 2026.