Here’s Why You Should Never Steal Traffic Cones in Texas

It may seem silly, but there are an estimated 1 million Americans across the country who get caught stealing those orange traffic cones each year. What makes the bright colors so tempting to some like moths drawn to a flame is beyond me, but what I do know is the punishment for stealing them if you get caught.

Traffic Cones in Texas, No Touchy!

According to Texas Criminal Lawyer David White, the latest estimates for the total amount of traffic cones in the world rests around 140 million. And yes, there are most definitely laws against stealing one of them in Texas.

The price of these cones vary depending on the size and quality. For instance, your standard orange traffic cone that you see the most on roads is usually between $50 and $70. However, those large cylindrical barrels can run up to $450 and possibly more.

You know what I think? I think they look so much like candy corn that people just need them for themselves and can't resist.

Texas Theft Charges

Now that we know how much each of these cones or barrels cost, we can generally assume what level of charge is tied to each theft. In Texas, here is the breakdown of each misdemeanor criteria, according to Texas attorney David White:

• Items stolen are valued under $100 - Class C misdemeanor
• Between $100 and $750 - Class B misdemeanor
• Between $750 and $2500 - Class A misdemeanor
• Between $2500 and $30,000 - State jail felony

Finally, even if you think it's no big deal since you just stole one small cone and were given the smallest misdemeanor charge: Class C, some employers will still see this on your record and refuse to hire you.

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So, the next time you drive past a construction zone in Texas and the uncontrollable urge to take things that aren't yours hits (seriously, you need to talk to someone), remember what it'll cost you—both financially and on your record.