Texas Aggravated Identity Theft Federal Attorney

Legal Defense for Federal Aggravated Identity Theft Charges in Texas and throughout the US

Identity theft is a serious offense that may result in either state or federal charges. It involves the illegal use of another person's identifying information, such as their driver's license or Social Security number, bank account numbers, credit cards, or even biometric information such as fingerprints. In some cases, the federal offense of aggravated identity theft may apply, and a person who is convicted may face harsh penalties, including large fines and a prison sentence. If you have been accused of aggravated identity theft, it is important to understand the specific nature of the charges you may face, the potential penalties of a conviction in federal courts, and the options for defense.

At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., our criminal defense attorneys are highly experienced in federal criminal cases, and we are prepared to help you defend against identity theft charges or other related offenses. We can review the evidence against you to determine if it was obtained legally or if other challenges can be made, and we will advise you on how to proceed as you respond to investigations by federal officials. With our knowledge of the federal laws that apply to identity theft, we can build an effective defense strategy, and we will work to have the charges against you dismissed or reduced.

Understanding Federal Aggravated Identity Theft Charges in Texas

Federal identity theft charges may apply in certain situations involving the production of false government identification documents, transferring or selling stolen identifying information to others, or possessing or using other people's information to commit violations of federal law. However, the charge of aggravated identity theft may apply in cases where another person's identifying information is used to commit specific felony offenses. These offenses include:

• Fraud - Offenses such as bank fraud, mail fraud, or wire fraud may be committed using a person's identifying information. These offenses may involve using a person's name and ID to open bank accounts or obtain loans, accessing someone else's credit card accounts and making purchases, or other situations in which a person's identifying information is used to defraud a financial institution.
• Fraud or embezzlement by bank employees - People who work for financial institutions may have access to customer information, and they may be charged with aggravated identity theft if they use this information to steal money from the bank or commit other forms of fraud.
• Theft of public money or property - A person's identifying information may be used to obtain public funds or steal property from the United States government. For example, a person may use someone else's information in order to obtain government benefits, and this could lead to aggravated identity theft charges.
• Theft or embezzlement from employee benefit plans - Using another person's information to obtain pension benefits or money from retirement accounts or otherwise obtaining funds or other forms of property from a plan meant to provide benefits for employees may lead to charges of aggravated identity theft.
• Gun trafficking - A person may use someone else's information in order to obtain a firearm. Making any false statements, including misrepresenting a person's identity, to obtain guns or ammunition from a licensed dealer, manufacturer, or importer is a federal offense that could lead to weapons charges in addition to identity theft charges.
• Immigration offenses - There are a variety of ways that identity theft may be used to circumvent immigration laws in an attempt to allow a person to enter or remain in the United States without authorization. Someone's identifying information may be used to create falsified documents such as passports or Green Cards. Personal information may also be used on visa applications or other immigration forms and documents. Immigrants who face charges of aggravated identity theft may be subject to deportation or other penalties.

A conviction on aggravated identity theft charges will generally result in a prison sentence of two years, in addition to the penalties for other felony offenses. However, if identity theft is related to acts of terrorism, a person may be sentenced to five years in addition to the sentences imposed following a conviction for terrorism offenses.

Contact Our Texas Aggravated Identity Theft Lawyer

Aggravated identity theft can be a serious federal charge that could result in increased sentences when a person is accused of committing other related crimes. If you are facing federal charges related to identity theft in Texas, it is important to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we understand the complexities involved in these cases, and we will work hard to provide you with effective legal representation. Contact us today at 214-544-0061 to set up a free consultation and get more information about how we can assist with your case.