Fort Worth, Texas Organized Criminal Activity Defense Lawyer

Skilled Defense Attorney Fighting Charges of Organized Crime in Fort Worth, TX

When law enforcement suspects that someone is engaging in organized crime, the penalties can be much higher than if they were alleged to have committed the crime on their own. If the prosecution accuses you of being part of a street gang, it can be difficult to shake that label without strong legal representation.

If you find yourself accused of this offense, our Fort Worth organized criminal activity defense attorney can represent you in court to protect your rights. Attorney Edwardo Meza of The Meza Law Firm, PLLC has over a decade of legal experience, and across his career, he has helped many people through involved advocacy and strong legal advice.

How Is Organized Criminal Activity Prosecuted in Texas?

In Texas, organized criminal activity charges are governed by the statute often referred to as "engaging in organized criminal activity." Prosecutors use this law when they believe a person worked with others to commit certain criminal offenses. Instead of charging only the underlying crime, the state can add an organized criminal activity allegation, which significantly raises the stakes.

One of the most serious aspects of this charge is that it can increase the level of the underlying offense. In many cases, the charge is enhanced by one degree. For example, a third-degree felony may be elevated to a second-degree felony if it is alleged to have been committed as part of organized criminal activity. If a deadly weapon was used or exhibited during the offense, the punishment range can increase even further, potentially adding another level of seriousness. These enhancements can mean longer prison sentences, higher fines, and more severe long-term consequences.

Prosecutors often devote substantial resources to building these cases. They may rely on surveillance, recorded communications, financial records, co-defendant testimony, or undercover investigations. A conviction can carry life-altering consequences, making a strong and strategic defense critical from the very beginning.

What Counts as Organized Criminal Activity?

Not every crime involving more than one person qualifies as organized criminal activity. Under Texas law, the state must show that the accused acted with the intent to establish, maintain, or participate in a "combination" or in the profits of a combination.

A "combination" does not require a formal organization, hierarchy, or gang structure. Instead, it generally refers to three or more people who collaborate in carrying out criminal activities. The group does not have to know each other well, and members do not all have to participate in every offense. However, the state must prove that the individuals worked together in a continuing course of criminal conduct, not just a one-time, spontaneous event.

The statute covers a wide range of underlying offenses, including drug crimes, theft, fraud, money laundering, robbery, and more. Simply being present when others commit a crime is not enough. The state must establish active participation and intent tied to the alleged combination.

Defenses Against Charges of Organized Criminal Activity

Defending against organized criminal activity charges requires a careful review of the facts and the state's theory of the case. One common defense is challenging whether a true "combination" existed. If the alleged conduct was isolated or lacked ongoing collaboration among three or more people, the organized criminal activity element may not be satisfied.

Another defense focuses on intent. The state must prove that you intended to participate in or benefit from the combination's criminal activities. If the evidence shows mere association, presence, or limited involvement without shared intent, that can weaken the prosecution's case.

Texas law also recognizes the defense of voluntary renunciation. If a person withdrew from participation and took affirmative steps to prevent the offense from occurring, the charge could be lessened to only the underlying offense. This requires more than simply changing your mind. It involves clear action that demonstrates abandonment of the criminal objective.

Additional defenses may include challenging the credibility of cooperating witnesses, disputing the legality of searches and seizures, or contesting whether a deadly weapon was actually used or exhibited.

Contact a Fort Worth Organized Criminal Activity Defense Attorney

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we will examine the allegations of organized crime, identify weaknesses in the state's case, and develop a strategy tailored to your situation. Call 817-732-6392 or contact our Fort Worth, TX organized criminal activity defense lawyer to schedule a free consultation.