What is the punishment for the sale or purchase of a child according to Texas Penal Code 2?

The Texas Penal Code specifically outlines that the sale or purchase of a child constitutes a serious crime due to the severe implications for the welfare of children and the integrity of family structures. This offense is categorized as a third degree felony.

In Texas, a third degree felony is punishable by a significant range of imprisonment, typically from 2 to 10 years, along with the possibility of substantial fines. The law reflects a stringent stance against any activities that involve the trafficking, exploitation, or transactional dealings involving minors, thereby aiming to protect vulnerable individuals from harm and exploitation.

The other classifications of felonies and misdemeanors (such as second degree felonies, class A misdemeanors, or state jail felonies) are reserved for different types of criminal behavior, which do not involve the direct trafficking or sale of children and do not carry the same level of severity as a third degree felony involving such a serious offense.