Our criminal defense lawyer outlines some of the most common crimes in Travis County.
Every state has its own data regarding the crimes that are committed within the area. As the second largest state in the country, Texas has everything from the fourth largest city in the nation to expansive rural areas. The larger a city’s population, the higher the crime rate is. Travis County is the fifth-most populous county in the state, and so many common crimes occur here. These are explained in detail below.
Drug Crimes
Drug crimes are common in every state, but they are a particular problem in Travis County and throughout Texas. Most arrests in the county are due to drug offenses, including possession. Drug crimes in Travis County are taken extremely seriously. There are many types of drugs that are illegal to use, distribute, share, sell, use, and possess. These include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and more.
Theft
Theft is another very common crime in Travis County. The penalties a person faces after being convicted of a theft crime depend largely on the amount of goods stolen. Even being convicted of a misdemeanor, however, may result in up to one year in jail.
Assault
Assault in Travis County can be defined as either simple or aggravated assault. Both are taken very seriously in Texas. To be convicted of assault, you must have intended to cause bodily injury to another person or intended to make physical contact with a person, knowing they would consider it provocative or offensive. Aggravated assault occurs when someone uses or displays a deadly weapon while committing assault. A conviction for simple assault may or may not result in jail time. A conviction for aggravated assault, on the other hand, is punishable by two to 20 years in prison.
Burglary
Burglary is also a common offense in Travis County. This crime occurs when a person enters a building or other structure, including a vehicle, without the consent of the owner and with the intent to commit a crime. It is important to note that a person does not have to forcibly break into a structure in order to be charged with burglary. Even entering a structure through an open window or door with the intent to commit a crime can result in burglary charges.
Robbery
Unlike burglary, robbery involves direct contact with the victim, which usually results in injury. Due to this, the offense is considered a violent crime. Essentially, robbery is theft using fear or physical force. One of the aspects of robbery that makes it unique from burglary is that it does not require a person to illegally enter a structure.
Call Our Criminal Defense Lawyers in Travis County Today
Regardless of the charges you are facing, our Travis County criminal defense lawyers at Granger and Mueller, P.C. can help. We have the necessary experience to build the strong defense you need so you can retain your freedom. Call us today at (512) 474-9999 or tell us about your case online, and we will get back to you to schedule a consultation.