Terroristic Threat

Terroristic Threat in Texas: Legal Definition, Penalties, and Considerations

In Texas, the offense of “Terroristic Threat” is codified under Texas Penal Code §22.07. This statute criminalizes threats of violence intended to instill fear, disrupt public services, or influence governmental actions.

Legal Definition

Under Texas Penal Code §22.07, a person commits a terroristic threat if they threaten to commit any offense involving violence to any person or property with the intent to:(Wikipedia)

1. Cause a reaction of any type to the threat by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies.(Texas Statutes)

2. Place any person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.(Flanary Law Firm, PLLC)

3. Prevent or interrupt the occupation or use of a building, room, place of assembly, place to which the public has access, place of employment or occupation, aircraft, automobile, or other form of conveyance, or other public place.(Wikipedia)

4. Cause impairment or interruption of public communications, public transportation, public water, gas, or power supply, or other public services.(Wikipedia)

5. Place the public or a substantial group of the public in fear of serious bodily injury.(Wikipedia)

6. Influence the conduct or activities of a branch or agency of the federal government, the state, or a political subdivision of the state.(Wikipedia)

It’s important to note that the actual ability to carry out the threat is not a requisite for the offense; the focus is on the intent and the effect of the threat.(ATX Legal)

Penalties

The classification and penalties for a terroristic threat offense in Texas vary based on the specific intent and circumstances:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Applicable when the threat is made to cause a reaction by emergency services or to place someone in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. Penalties include up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,000. (Whalen Law Office)

• Class A Misdemeanor: Applies if the offense is committed against a family member or public servant, or involves preventing the occupation of a building. Penalties include up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $4,000. (Saputo ✭ Toufexis)

• State Jail Felony: If the offense results in a pecuniary loss of $1,500 or more to the owner of the affected property. Penalties range from 180 days to two years in a state jail facility and a fine up to $10,000. (Varghese Summersett)

• Third-Degree Felony: Applicable when the threat causes impairment or interruption of public services, places the public in fear of serious bodily injury, or aims to influence government conduct. Penalties include two to ten years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. (Wikipedia)

Legal Considerations

A key aspect of the terroristic threat statute is that the offense focuses on the intent to cause fear or disruption, regardless of whether the threat is carried out. Courts have held that the offense is complete if the accused, by their threat, sought to place a person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. (Flanary Law Firm, PLLC)

Legal Assistance

If you or someone you know is facing charges related to a terroristic threat in Texas, it’s crucial to seek experienced legal representation. Wilkerson & Campbell, PLLC specializes in criminal defense and is committed to protecting your rights.

• Phone: 844-849-9789

• Address: 2201 Main Street, Suite 206, Dallas, TX 75201