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League City Criminal Defense Lawyer / League City Computer Crime & Cybercrime Lawyer

League City Computer Crime & Cybercrime Defense Lawyer

The prosecution of computer crimes, also known as cybercrimes, is becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s digital age. Texas takes these offenses very seriously, with laws that address various forms of illegal activities involving computers, networks, and data. Chapter 33 of the Texas Penal Code, for example, outlines specific computer crimes and the penalties associated with them. If you or someone you know is accused of a cybercrime, it is crucial to understand the nature of the charges and how severe the consequences can be. Attorney at Law John Reed can evaluate your situation, explain your options, and chart a path toward the best outcome in your given circumstances. Contact our experienced League City computer crime/cybercrime defense lawyer today.

Key Computer Crimes Under Chapter 33 of the Texas Penal Code

Below are some of the most common offenses listed under Texas Penal Code Chapter 33, which covers computer crimes. Each offense carries significant legal consequences, and a conviction can have a lasting impact on your future.

1. Breach of Computer Security (Section 33.02)

One of the most common computer-related offenses in Texas is the Breach of Computer Security, which occurs when someone intentionally accesses a computer, network, or system without the consent of the owner.

  • Penalties: If no other crimes are committed, this is typically a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000. However, if the breach involves sensitive data such as governmental or health information, the penalties can escalate to a felony, with sentences ranging from six months to two years in a state jail. In more severe cases, such as accessing government databases, penalties may include up to 99 years in prison.

2. Online Impersonation (Section 33.07)

Online impersonation occurs when a person uses another individual’s name or likeness to create a website, post on social media, or send messages intending to harm or defraud someone.

  • Penalties: This crime is generally classified as a third-degree felony, punishable by two to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. However, if the impersonation causes someone to believe they are being contacted by another person and prompts them to respond, the charge can be upgraded to a second-degree felony, which carries a prison sentence of two to 20 years.

3. Electronic Data Tampering (Section 33.021)

This crime involves altering, damaging, or deleting data in a computer system without permission. It also includes introducing malware or ransomware to a system.

  • Penalties: Depending on the nature and intent of the offense, this crime can range from a Class C misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $500, to a second-degree felony, punishable by two to 20 years in prison. The severity depends on the value of the data affected and whether it involved critical infrastructures, such as government or health systems.

4. Phishing (Section 33.021(c))

Phishing is the fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or personal identification, by disguising oneself as a trustworthy entity in electronic communications. This could involve emails, fake websites, or other forms of digital communication.

  • Penalties: Phishing is often charged as fraudulent use of identifying information, a state jail felony. A conviction can result in six months to two years in a state jail facility, and in more severe cases, a conviction could lead to penalties of up to 20 years in prison if the crime targeted the elderly or involved a large number of victims.

Why Cybercrime Charges Are So Serious

Cybercrime charges are taken very seriously in Texas due to the potential for widespread harm. These offenses often involve financial loss, identity theft, or violations of privacy that can affect individuals, businesses, and even governmental institutions. With more sectors becoming reliant on technology, Texas has heightened its focus on prosecuting offenders who use computers and digital networks for illegal purposes.

Additionally, cybercrimes frequently cross state and national borders, making them more complex to investigate and prosecute. As a result, federal authorities may become involved in cases that start as state-level crimes, leading to even harsher penalties.

Defending Against Cybercrime Charges

Given the complexity of cybercrimes, it is vital to have an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are facing these charges. With over 33 years of practice in Texas criminal law, including as an Assistant District Attorney as well as criminal defense, John Reed, Attorney at Law, understands the technical and legal aspects of these cases and is prepared to provide aggressive defense strategies for his clients. Whether you are accused of hacking, data tampering, or phishing, the sooner you seek legal counsel, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome.

Contact John Reed, Attorney at Law, Today

Computer crimes in Texas, as defined under Chapter 33 and other sections of the Texas Penal Code, carry severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. Understanding the specific charges and their penalties is crucial when building a defense. If you are accused of any cybercrime, contact John Reed, Attorney at Law, in League City, Texas, at 281-928-8228 for a free consultation. With his expertise in criminal defense, John Reed can help you navigate these complex charges and protect your rights.

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