Theft Bonds in Amarillo TX
Theft is one of the most common charges we write bonds for in Potter County. Here is how the charge levels work and what bail typically looks like.
Theft Charge Levels in Texas
In Texas, the severity of a theft charge depends on the value of what was taken. Here is a simple breakdown:
Class C Misdemeanor — Theft of less than $100. Often a ticket-level offense, though it can result in a warrant if ignored. Bail is usually $500 or less.
Class B Misdemeanor — Theft of $100 to $750. This covers most shoplifting arrests. Bail typically ranges from $500 to $1,500.
Class A Misdemeanor — Theft of $750 to $2,500. Bail typically $1,500 to $3,500 in Potter County.
State Jail Felony — Theft of $2,500 to $30,000. This is where theft charges cross into felony territory. Bail ranges from $2,500 to $15,000.
Third Degree Felony and above — Theft over $30,000. Bail increases significantly at these levels.
Prior Theft Convictions Raise the Charge Level
In Texas, a history of prior theft convictions can bump a new theft charge to a higher level regardless of the dollar amount. A third theft conviction, even for a small amount, becomes a state jail felony. This is why acting fast to post bond and secure a defense attorney matters.
Common Theft Situations We Handle
We write theft bonds for a wide range of situations across Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle:
- Shoplifting at Amarillo retailers and malls
- Vehicle theft and unauthorized use of a vehicle
- Theft of services (utilities, cable, etc.)
- Employee theft and embezzlement
- Credit card abuse
- Theft by check (bad checks)
- Organized retail theft (multiple incidents combined)
- Burglary of a vehicle - a separate but related charge
Theft charges in Texas can be enhanced based on criminal history. Someone with two or more prior theft convictions faces elevated charges even for lower-dollar thefts. We understand these cases and handle them regularly at the Potter County Detention Center.