When Can a Person Be Accused of Terroristic Threats in Texas?

 Posted on June 02, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Terrorism is a significant concern in the United States, and law enforcement officials need to be able to respond promptly to any threats to public safety. However, people may not realize that the offense of "terroristic threat" that may apply in certain types of criminal cases in Texas is not limited to acts of terrorism. This offense may be charged in multiple situations where a person makes threats against someone else or acts in a disruptive manner. By understanding the situations where these charges may apply, those who have been accused of these crimes can determine their options for defense.

Terroristic Threat vs. Assault

In some cases, the charge of terroristic threat may apply in situations that people often associate with assault. Under Texas law, assault charges involve the intentional infliction of injuries, but terroristic threat charges may involve threats to commit violence that cause a person to fear that they are in imminent danger of suffering a serious bodily injury. The minimum charge for this offense is a Class B misdemeanor, which carries a maximum sentence of six months in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. If terroristic threats are made against a family member or constitute family violence, a person may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, and if they are convicted, they may be sentenced to up to one year in jail and fined up to $4,000. Class A misdemeanor charges will also apply if terroristic threats are made against a public servant, and threats against a police officer or judge may result in state jail felony charges. A conviction for a state jail felony may result in a six-month to two-year jail sentence and a maximum $10,000 fine.

Terroristic threat charges may also apply in other situations where a person is accused of threatening to commit violence against one or more people or threatening to destroy property. The specific charges include:

• Making threats that lead to an emergency response from official or volunteer agencies. This is a Class B misdemeanor.

• Using threats of violence to prevent people from accessing or using a building, a public place, a place of employment, a motor vehicle, or another form of transportation. This is usually charged as a Class A misdemeanor, although if a person allegedly caused at least $1,500 in losses for the owner of a building, property, or mode of transportation, they may be charged with a state jail felony.

• Causing interruptions of public infrastructure or utilities, including power lines, communications, water, or gas. This offense is a third degree felony, which can lead to a prison sentence of two to 10 years and a maximum fine of $10,000.

• Acting in a way that causes multiple members of the public to fear that they will suffer serious injuries. This is a third degree felony.

• Using threats of violence in an attempt to influence a government agency or a branch of the federal, state, or local government. This offense is a third degree felony.

If you have been accused of making terroristic threats in Texas, or if you have been arrested and charged with this offense, it is essential to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. It is also important to assert your right to remain silent when questioned by police officers, since anything you say or do, including your body language and facial expressions, could potentially be used during a criminal case. A skilled defense attorney can investigate the situation, develop a legal strategy, and help you determine whether you can seek a dismissal of the charges or negotiate a favorable plea bargain.

Contact Our Tarrant County Terroristic Threat Defense Lawyer

Being charged with terroristic threats is a serious matter in Texas. The penalties can range from a fine to several years in prison, and the consequences can have long-lasting effects on your life. If you are facing terroristic threat charges, it is essential to hire a knowledgeable and trustworthy Fort Worth criminal defense attorney who can defend your rights and help you take steps to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Contact The Dameron Law Firm today at 817-222-0624 to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Sources:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/pe/htm/pe.22.htm

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.12.htm