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Pleasanton, Texas 78064
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OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW
WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?
Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.
Online Impersonation
Texas Penal Code 33.07 - ONLINE IMPERSONATION
Online Impersonation Attorney in San Antonio, Texas
Online impersonation is a serious criminal offense in the state of Texas. Pursuant to Texas Penal Code Section 33.07, it is illegal to impersonate someone else online with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten any individual or entity.
To be convicted of online impersonation in Texas, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally assumed the identity of another person online, without that person's consent, and used that identity to communicate with another person. The communication must have been made with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten the other person or entity.
For example, if someone creates a fake social media account using another person's name and personal information, and uses that account to send threatening messages to someone, they could be charged with online impersonation.
Also, even if the accused does not actually impersonate someone, they can still be charged if that person:
sends an electronic mail, instant message, text message, or similar communication that references a name, domain address, phone number, or other item of identifying information belonging to any person:
(1) without obtaining the other person's consent;
(2) with the intent to cause a recipient of the communication to reasonably believe that the other person authorized or transmitted the communication; and
(3) with the intent to harm or defraud any person.
Defenses to Online Impersonation in Texas
If you have been charged with online impersonation in Texas, you may be wondering what defenses are available to you. Pursuant to Texas Penal Code Section 33.07, it is illegal to impersonate someone else online with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten any individual or entity. However, there are several possible defenses that you may be able to raise in response to these charges.
One defense to online impersonation is that you did not intentionally assume the identity of another person. In order to be convicted of online impersonation in Texas, the prosecution must prove that you intentionally assumed another person's identity online. If you can show that you did not intentionally impersonate someone else, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
Another defense is that you did not use the assumed identity to communicate with another person. Under Texas Penal Code Section 33.07, the communication must have been made with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten the other person or entity. If you can show that you did not use the assumed identity to communicate with anyone, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
A third defense is that you had the consent of the person whose identity you assumed. If you can show that you had the consent of the person whose identity you assumed, you may be able to avoid a conviction for online impersonation.
It is important to note that these are just a few examples of possible defenses to online impersonation. The specific defenses available to you will depend on the circumstances of your case. If you have been charged with online impersonation in Texas, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your unique situation.
