Organized Criminal Activity
Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (EOCA), also referred to as Organized Crime, is a offense described in Texas Penal Code Chapter 71. The “Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity” offense does not really describe a new kind of criminal activity, but instead increases the severity of the penalty for committing an offense when a group works together to commit the crime.
Types of Organized Crimes
Section 71.02 of the Texas Penal Code makes it a crime to engage in or conspiring to engage in organized criminal activity involving any of the crimes listed in the statute, including:
- Murder and capital murder
- Arson
- Robbery and aggravated robbery
- Burglary
- Theft
- Kidnapping
- Sexual assault
- Gambling
- Promoting prostitution
- Unlawful sale of firearms
- Unlawful manufacture or delivery of controlled substances or dangerous drugs
- Felony fraud offenses under chapter 32 of the Texas Penal Code
Keep in mind that you do not need to be a member of a gang to be charged with the offense of engaging in an organized crime in Texas. All that needs to occur for this charge is evidence that more than two people collaborated to carry out a criminal action.
Consequences of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity
A charge of organized criminal activity under this statute is punishable as one category higher than the most serious underlying charge. For example, if the most serious offense is a Class A misdemeanor, then the offense is a state jail felony.
If you have been charged with EOCA then schedule a consultation to review your case, contact The Law Office of Jerry Michael Acosta by completing our online contact form or call at (713) 869-4000.