Fort Worth Unlawful Installation of Tracking Device Defense Attorney

Trusted Defense Lawyer for Tracking Device Charges in Fort Worth, Texas

Advances in technology have made it easy to track people's whereabouts, often accomplished through devices that could fit in the palm of one's hand. However, the use of these tracking devices inside someone else's car—outside of some narrow legal exceptions—is strictly criminalized in Texas. If you are under investigation for this criminal offense, be sure to contact a Fort Worth, TX unlawful installation of a tracking device defense attorney.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we are highly familiar with the laws surrounding tracking devices in Texas. We can examine your case in detail and look for weaknesses in the prosecution's case, drawing on over 10 years of proven legal experience.

What Counts as "Unlawful Installation" of a Tracker in Texas?

Unlawful installation of a tracker in Texas generally involves knowingly placing an electronic or mechanical tracking device on a vehicle that belongs to or is leased by someone else. A tracking device includes any item that sends out a signal or electronic frequency that can be used to follow the location of a person or object. This can include GPS units, hidden magnetic trackers, and small consumer devices such as Apple AirTags or similar Bluetooth trackers placed inside or under a car.

This offense is usually a Class A misdemeanor in Texas. A conviction can lead to up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Many of these cases arise during divorces, breakups, and custody disputes, when one person wants to know where another person is going.

Tracking charges often overlap with stalking charges. If the tracking is part of a pattern of conduct that causes someone to feel threatened or harassed, prosecutors may also file a stalking charge, which is a felony. Tracking someone through a device hidden in a purse, backpack, or other personal item may not fall under the vehicle tracking law, but it can still lead to stalking or harassment charges depending on the facts.

Exceptions to Tracking Device Laws in Texas

Texas law provides several exceptions to the tracking device laws. One of the most common exceptions applies when the vehicle's owner or lessee gave valid consent before the device was installed.

Additionally, law enforcement officers can install tracking devices as part of a lawful criminal investigation. A person who was helping someone they reasonably believed to be a police officer carrying out authorized work may also have a defense.

Licensed private investigators have a defense as well when the vehicle's owner or lessee gave them permission to install the device. If the investigator needed to enter private residential property to place the tracker, they must also have permission from the owner or tenant of that property. A private investigator may also be protected when a court has authorized the installation. These exceptions do not apply if the device was used to commit another crime.

What Other Defenses Are There to Tracking Device Charges in Fort Worth?

Other defenses to tracking device charges in Fort Worth may also apply. Lack of intent is often a central issue. The state must prove that you knowingly installed a tracker on another person's vehicle. A device left in a car by accident, such as an AirTag attached to a bag or keychain that was later left behind, may not support a criminal charge.

Mistaken identity is another possible defense. Tracking devices can be bought and installed by anyone, and the state must prove that you were the person who placed the device. Purchase records, phone data, and account information can sometimes point to someone else.

In some cases, the item in question may not qualify as a tracking device under Texas law. A dash camera, a vehicle's built-in navigation system, or an app the driver installed with their own permission may not meet the legal definition. Our attorney can also review whether you had an ownership interest in the vehicle, which can affect whether the law applies at all.

Contact Our Fort Worth Unlawful Installation of a Tracking Device Defense Lawyer Today

A tracking device accusation can carry jail time and lead to additional charges. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we work to examine the evidence and protect your rights. Contact our Fort Worth, TX unlawful installation of a tracking device defense attorney or call 817-732-6392 to schedule a free consultation.