CASE DISMISSED: ROBBERY CHARGE

Overview:
Our client was wrongfully arrested and charged with Robbery (a Second-Degree Felony under Texas Penal Code §29.02) after a chaotic incident at a Garland gas station. What began as an act of self-defense and an attempt to report property damage was quickly—and incorrectly—treated as a felony offense.

The Incident:

Our client and her boyfriend stopped at a gas station when another individual became enraged and slammed his hands on their vehicle, damaging the windshield. When they exited to confront him about the damage, the man initiated a physical altercation with the client's boyfriend.

During the scuffle, some of the aggressor's belongings fell to the ground, including his ID. Our client picked up the identification card so she could later file a police report and identify the person responsible for damaging their car.

When police arrived, they failed to properly investigate who initiated the confrontation. Instead, they assumed that because the client had possession of the other party's ID, she must have stolen it—and arrested her for Robbery.

Defense Strategy:

Texas Defenders took immediate action to uncover the truth. Our legal team reviewed video footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence, revealing that:

• The alleged “victim” was actually the initial aggressor who caused the entire confrontation.

• Our client had no intent to steal or permanently deprive anyone of property.

• She acted responsibly in keeping the ID to help officers identify the man who damaged her car.

• There was no force or threat used to take the item, meaning the core elements of robbery were not met under Texas law.

The Outcome:

After months of persistence, communication with the District Attorney's Office, and thorough legal advocacy, Texas Defenders succeeded in getting the case dismissed.

Our client not only avoided a felony conviction but was spared from any probation, court supervision, or lasting record. The dismissal clears the way for her to seek a full expunction—restoring her clean name and future opportunities.