Terroristic Threats
Terroristic Threats Defense Attorney in Houston: Brazoria, Ft. Bend, Galveston, Harris & Montgomery Counties
Reports of terrorism appear in news media on an almost daily basis. Many of these stories focus on large-scale acts of terrorism, such as hijacking, kidnapping or bomb attacks. Law enforcement agencies and government agencies have systems in place to deal with terrorist behavior on a smaller scale. These agencies have the ability to charge and prosecute people who engage in activities that can be classified as terroristic threats.
What is a Terroristic Threat?
According to the law, terrorist behavior is not only practiced by extremists who try to kill or injure large groups of people. In fact, simply expressing a desire to kill or injure another person can be classified as terrorist behavior.
Behavior of this kind can include death threats, threats of serious bodily harm, public utilities threats or threats against public transportation systems. Even if the person making the threat has no actual intent to act on their statements, law enforcement takes these threats very seriously and will press charges whenever possible.
Any person can be charged with making a threat of terrorism in Houston if that person communicates that they wish to commit an act of violence in order to:
- Cause another person to fear imminent, serious bodily harm.
- Disrupt the normal operations of any public transportation system.
- Cause emergency services to respond to the threat.
- Cause a public space to be evacuated.
- Cause a politician, public official, or government agency to respond or take action regarding the threat.
- Disrupt the normal operations of a public communications system.
Punishments for Threats of Terrorism
Depending on the type of threat, whether or not the threat was carried out and the amount of damage caused by the threat, the legal penalties could range from a misdemeanor conviction up to a third-degree felony. According to the Texas Penal Code, death threats, threats against a public official, public utilities threats and threats of serious bodily harm can result in several penalties, including but not limited to:
- Incarceration, either in jail or in prison
- Fines
- Loss of the right to carry a concealed weapon
- Denial of eligibility to receive housing assistance or student loans
- Months or years of probation
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today
It can be terrifying to be accused of making threats against a public figure. If you are in this situation, then you need legal help now.
Schedule a free legal consultation with the Law Office of Greg Tsioros today by calling (832) 752-5972.