Most Common Criminal Charges in Texas

When it comes to preventing crimes and enforcing the law, Texas grapples with unique challenges that vary in region and scope. A 2023 crime report published by the state government of Texas highlights a general decrease in the number of criminal charges but still shows that rates are high across the board — especially for the most common criminal charges in Texas. By understanding these statistics, residents can work to protect their rights and security.

Understanding General Crime Trends in Texas

The most recently published crime data report from the state government of Texas shows a general decline in crime rates for most types of crimes from 2022 to 2023. Notably, violent crimes saw a 7.2% overall reduction, with murder and aggravated assault seeing considerable drops in charges. Property crimes saw a 3.3% decrease, although charges for motor vehicle theft increased by 22.8%.

The data from the crime report also shows that heavily populated urban areas like Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, and Harris County make up a considerable amount of all criminal charges brought forward in the state. These regions alone account for over 40% of criminal charges in the state.

Property Crime in Texas

Property crimes are significantly more common than violent crimes in Texas, and they include larceny, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Although there has been a significant decrease in overall property crime rates, these types of criminal charges continue to lead as the most common.

Larceny, which is defined as taking another individual’s property without using force, is the most commonly reported crime in Texas. Although reported incidents decreased by 7.1% in 2023, this crime still makes up a large percentage of the overall volume of crimes reported in the state. The second most commonly reported crime is motor vehicle theft, which involves taking another person’s motor vehicle. This crime increased by 22.8% from 2022 to 2023.

The third most common crime is burglary, or breaking or entering, which still has a significantly high report rate despite a 10.2% decrease from 2022 to 2023. Residents should exercise caution to avoid falling victim to Texas property crimes.

Violent Crime in Texas

Violent crimes tend to make up a significantly lower portion of total reported crimes in Texas when compared with property crimes. The most commonly charged violent crime is aggravated assault, which saw an 8.1% decrease in charges from 2022 to 2023. It should be noted that aggravated assault is the fourth most commonly reported crime in Texas. Other common violent criminal charges include robbery and rape.

Common Criminal Charges in Texas’ Urban Areas

A disproportionate share of Texas’ crime volume is seen in urban areas such as Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, and Austin. The Houston Police Department saw 16.1% of all state crime incidents in 2023, and the San Antonio Police Department accounted for 11.4%. The concentration of criminal charges in urban areas is a reflection of the high population density and economic activity in these areas.

Legal Representation for Those Charged With Crimes in Texas

Facing criminal charges in Texas can be life-altering, involving a variety of negative consequences such as long periods of incarceration, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Whether you have been charged with a property crime or violent offense, it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney to ensure your rights are protected and that you have access to fair legal proceedings.

If you are facing criminal charges in Texas, working with a detail-oriented criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference in your case.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Most Common Criminal Charges in Texas?

A: According to a 2023 crime report released by the Texas State government, the most common criminal charges in Texas are larceny, motor vehicle theft, burglary, aggravated assault, robbery, and rape. Property crimes such as burglary and theft are generally reported at higher rates than violent crimes. Other notable crimes reported include murder, human trafficking, and arson.

Q: What Is the Difference Between Violent and Property Crimes in Texas?

A: In Texas, violent crimes involve threatening or harming an individual and include offenses such as aggravated assault, robbery, rape, murder, non-negligent manslaughter, and human trafficking. Property crimes, on the other hand, involve damaging or stealing property, with examples of crimes being larceny, motor vehicle theft, burglary or breaking and entering, and arson.

Q: Which Type of Crime Has Increased Recently in Texas?

A: The most recent crime report in Texas shows that motor vehicle theft was one of the few crimes to increase in volume between 2022 and 2023. All other major crimes, such as aggravated assault, robbery, larceny, burglary, and arson, have seen recent declines. Even with the overall decline in crime rates in other categories, the increase in motor vehicle theft draws attention to a concerning trend.

Q: How Are Aggravated Assault Charges Defined in Texas?

A: Aggravated assault charges are defined in Texas as causing severe bodily injury to another individual or the use of a deadly weapon during an instance of assault. Aggravated assault is considered to be a violent crime and can lead to significant penalties such as hefty fines, long periods of incarceration, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing aggravated assault charges, it’s crucial to work with a skilled criminal defense attorney.

Q: How Can a Lawyer Help With Criminal Charges in Texas?

A: A lawyer can assist with defending your rights and interests if you are dealing with criminal charges in Texas. They can look into the evidence against you and design defense strategies to question its accuracy, sufficiency, and consistency. For example, if evidence was obtained illegally, they can work to suppress it. Furthermore, they can negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf and advocate for you in court to fight for an optimal case outcome.

Work With a Seasoned Texas Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been swept up in recent criminal charges in Texas, you are likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what steps to take to protect yourself. Fortunately, a diligent Texas criminal defense attorney from Greco Neyland, PC is here for you during this challenging time.

We can help you design and implement a strong defense strategy that yields a favorable outcome in your case. Contact us today to get started discussing the details of your case and forging a robust legal path forward.