Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer | Dallas, Houston & San Antonio Criminal Attorney

Introduction

Cargo theft in Texas isn’t just making headlines — it’s becoming one of the most urgent criminal challenges in the state. In 2025, while FBI data shows violent crime is declining nationwide, Texas is facing a dangerous new surge. From the bustling freight yards of Dallas to the trucking corridors of Houston and the distribution hubs of San Antonio, organized theft rings are targeting high-value goods with precision and speed.

Texas law enforcement reported a 39% statewide increase in cargo theft incidents in 2024, with Dallas County alone seeing an alarming 78% jump. For those accused, working with an experienced Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer can make the difference between prison time and a cleared name.

---

Why Cargo Theft Is a Serious Felony in Texas

Under Texas Penal Code § 31.18, cargo theft involves stealing goods from a vehicle, storage facility, or shipment before delivery. A Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer knows that the penalties depend on the value of the stolen goods:

• Under $2,500 – State jail felony (up to 2 years)
• $2,500 – $30,000 – Third-degree felony (2–10 years)
• $30,000 – $150,000 – Second-degree felony (2–20 years)
• Over $150,000 – First-degree felony (5–99 years or life)

Federal charges can also apply if the theft involves interstate commerce, making it even more important to hire a Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer who understands both state and federal law.

---

Live Example: Dallas Warehouse Cargo Theft Case (2024)

In late 2024, Dallas police arrested three suspects accused of stealing over $600,000 worth of electronics from a shipping warehouse. Investigators alleged that the suspects gained entry using fake delivery paperwork and loaded the goods onto a rented box truck.

While the case drew significant media attention, defense attorneys argued that their clients were misidentified and that the evidence relied heavily on grainy surveillance footage. Ultimately, due to insufficient proof linking the suspects to the crime scene, the charges against one defendant were dropped.

A skilled Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer would know how to challenge questionable identification and evidence — strategies that often lead to reduced charges or outright dismissal.

---

Common Scenarios Leading to Cargo Theft Charges

• Theft from semi-trailers parked at rest areas or warehouses
• Hijacking freight vehicles on highways
• Using falsified delivery documents to access goods
• Employee involvement in organized theft rings
• Coordinated theft from port or airport shipments

---

Defense Strategies in Cargo Theft Cases

1. Challenging Evidence Collection
   • Was the search warrant valid?
   • Were the goods correctly identified and valued?
   • Was the surveillance footage admissible?
2. Disputing Identification
   • Many cargo theft operations involve multiple individuals, making mistaken identity a common problem.
3. Questioning the Value of Goods
   • Prosecutors must prove the value of stolen items; overestimation can unfairly increase charges.
4. Highlighting Procedural Errors
   • If evidence was obtained illegally, it can be suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Having a Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer who understands these strategies can greatly improve your chances of success.

---

The Stakes Are Higher in 2025

With cargo theft now a major law enforcement priority in Texas, prosecutors are pursuing maximum penalties. This means you could face years in prison, massive fines, and a permanent felony record.

Even a first-time offender may be treated harshly if the alleged theft involves organized crime enhancements. That’s why speaking to a Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer immediately after an arrest is critical.

---

YouTube Video Heading

“Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer Explains: How to Beat Cargo Theft Charges in Dallas, Houston & San Antonio”

---

Call to Action

If you’ve been accused of cargo theft in Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio, you need an experienced Texas Cargo Theft Defense Lawyer who understands both state and federal law. The sooner you get legal representation, the stronger your defense will be.

Call now for a free, confidential consultation. Your freedom, reputation, and future are too important to risk.

---