Most Reported Crimes in Texas

Crime happens everywhere, but in a state as massive and diverse as Texas, understanding what kinds of crimes are most common and how they’re handled by the law is key. 

Whether you’re someone trying to understand the system better or you’re facing a charge yourself, this guide covers the most reported crimes in Texas and what happens at each stage of the legal process.

Crime Trends in Texas

Each year, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) releases its Crime in Texas report, which includes data from every city, county, and police agency across the state. The numbers consistently show that property crimes and drug offenses dominate arrest records, while violent crimes, although fewer in number, carry the heaviest penalties.

Categories of Crime in Texas

Texas law separates crimes into general groups:

• Violent Crimes – murder, rape, aggravated assault, robbery
• Property Crimes – burglary, larceny-theft, arson, car theft
• Public Order Offenses – DWI, disorderly conduct, unlawful weapon possession
• Drug Offenses – possession, manufacture, delivery of controlled substances

Understanding these categories matters because each type follows a different legal path — from how it’s charged to what penalties you’re facing.

The Most Reported Crimes in Texas

Let’s walk through the crimes you’re most likely to encounter in a police report, courtroom, or criminal defense case in Texas and what each charge actually involves.

1. Theft and Larceny 

Unlawfully taking someone else’s property without their permission and without intent to return it. Over 400,000 theft-related cases are reported in Texas every year. This includes everything from shoplifting a $10 item to stealing a vehicle.

Examples:

• Shoplifting
• Pickpocketing
• Stealing a bike or package off a porch

Penalties:

• Under $100 → Class C Misdemeanor (fine only)
• $100–$750 → Class B Misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail)
• Over $2,500 → State Jail or Felony charges depending on the amount

If there’s no clear intent to steal (e.g., misunderstanding ownership), your lawyer may argue for dismissal or a lesser charge.

Drug Possession

Texas continues to report high numbers of drug-related arrests — over 110,000 drug abuse violations statewide in 2023. 

Common Drugs Involved:

• Marijuana
• Methamphetamine
• Cocaine
• Prescription pills (like Xanax or Adderall without a script)

The more you’re caught, the worse it gets. Even possession without intent to sell can lead to trafficking-level charges based on weight alone.

Assault and Domestic Violence

Assault cases remain one of the most heavily reported violent crimes, with over 150,000 simple assault incidents and more than 70,000 aggravated assault cases reported in 2023.

Types of Assault:

• Simple Assault: Threats or minor injury
• Aggravated Assault: Serious injury or use of a weapon
• Family Violence: Involving a spouse, ex, dating partner, or relative

Self-defense is legally protected in Texas if you can show you were defending yourself or someone else.

Burglary and Criminal Trespassing

Texas law enforcement recorded approximately 120,000 burglary-related incidents in 2023.
Charge Levels:

• Burglary of a Home: Second-degree felony (2–20 years)
• Burglary of a Business: State jail felony (6 months–2 years)
• Vehicle Burglary: Class A misdemeanor
• Criminal Trespass (no theft intent): Usually a Class B misdemeanor

The difference between burglary and trespassing often comes down to whether prosecutors can prove you intended to commit a crime after entering.

DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)

Texas continues to crack down on DWI offenders, with over 85,000 DWI arrests made in 2024.

Penalties:

• First Offense: Class B misdemeanor, up to 180 days in jail
• Second Offense: Class A misdemeanor
• Third Offense: Third-degree felony (2–10 years)
• With a Child Passenger: Automatic felony

Breathalyzer errors, improper stops, and field sobriety test issues are common ways to challenge DWI charges.

What Happens After The Arrest?

If you or someone you care about gets charged, here’s the step-by-step process you can expect in Texas:

1. Booking & Jail

Once arrested, you’ll be fingerprinted, photographed, and processed. For minor charges, you may be released with a court date. For more serious ones, you’ll stay in jail until your magistrate hearing.

2. Bail Hearing

Within 48 hours, a judge sets bail or decides to release you on a personal bond. Bail amounts vary based on:

• The offense
• Prior record
• Risk of flight

3. Arraignment

You’ll enter a plea (usually “Not Guilty” early on). The court sets your next appearance.

4. Pre-Trial Phase

This is when your lawyer starts working. They’ll:

• Review evidence (“discovery”)
• Challenge illegal searches
• Negotiate a plea deal or fight for dismissal

5. Trial or Plea Agreement

Most cases in Texas don’t go to trial. If yours does, the jury will decide guilt. If not, your lawyer may secure a deal that avoids jail or reduces the charge.

Record Clearing After The Case

Not all criminal cases end with jail time. Some result in:

• Deferred adjudication (probation, then dismissal)
• Diversion programs (for first-time offenders)
• Case dismissal

If your case ends without a conviction, you may qualify for:

• Expunction: Full record removal
• Order of Nondisclosure: Seals your record from public view

Not every dismissed case is automatically sealed. You must apply and meet eligibility criteria.

Arrested? Don’t Plea, Call Me!

Facing a criminal charge in Texas is overwhelming — even when the offense is common, the legal process is anything but simple. Understanding the most reported crimes, the penalties attached to them, and the path your case might take can help you make better decisions when it matters most.

But no matter how informed you are, nothing replaces the protection and guidance a skilled defense attorney can provide. If you or someone you care about is facing charges in Texas, don’t wait to get the legal support you need.

Texas Criminal Defense Group is ready to fight for you with experience, strategy, and a commitment to protecting your future.