Man Admits Guilt to Deadly Conduct via Snapchat

A grand jury in San Angelo recently indicted a man for allegedly firing two gunshots at a vehicle last December. In an interesting twist to the case, the man had already confessed to the crime – to the victim – via Snapchat.

Per Concho Valley Homepage, Santana Garcia was indicted this past June for deadly conduct with a firearm after allegedly shooting at a vehicle at a Tom Green County apartment complex. They report that “Records filed in Tom Green County show that multiple calls of service came to dispatch that apartment residents near the 300 block of N. Main St. had heard two gunshots in the area on Dec. 11, 2022. San Angelo Police Department officers were dispatched for criminal mischief.”

After speaking with the victim, police learned that Garcia had been calling the victim making vague threats, and when the victim returned to their apartment, they found their vehicle (as well as the apartment building) had been shot. Later that night, Garcia was involved in a car accident, where law enforcement found a stolen firearm in his vehicle.

The kicker to the story, however? Garcia also sent Snapchats to the victim, reading, “Sure I’ll plead guilty,” and “I’m willing to face my consequences for my actions, I’m sorry.”

What are deadly conduct charges?

Deadly conduct is a serious crime in Texas that can be charged as either a Class A misdemeanor or a third-degree felony. The specific charge will depend on the circumstances of the case.

Under Texas Penal Code Section 22.05, a person commits deadly conduct if they:

• Recklessly engage in conduct that places another in imminent danger of serious bodily injury. This means that the person must be aware of the risk that their conduct could cause serious bodily injury, but they must also consciously disregard that risk.
• Knowingly discharge a firearm at or in the direction of another. This does not matter if the firearm was loaded or not.
• Knowingly discharge a firearm at or in the direction of a habitation, building, or vehicle and is reckless as to whether the habitation, building, or vehicle is occupied.

In the case of Mr. Garcia, he earned himself a deadly conduct charge because he allegedly shot the vehicle.

The penalties for deadly conduct depend on the severity of the offense. A Class A misdemeanor conviction carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. A third-degree felony conviction carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Note that a felony conviction will also cost you your right to carry a firearm.

Can you help me if I’m charged with deadly conduct?

Yes, we can. Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers focuses on defending felony assault and deadly conduct charges, and has successfully represented clients throughout Central Texas who are accused of these crimes. If we cannot have your charges dropped and your case dismissed outright, we will advocate for:

• Reduced charges to a lesser crime
• Seeking probation or community service in lieu of jail time
• Pre-trial intervention, which would allow you to avoid a criminal record provided you participate in a probation-like program

How we prepare your defense will be based on the exact circumstances of your case. The sooner you call us, the more quickly we can get to work on protecting your rights and your freedoms.

How to help yourself if you’re arrested on deadly conduct charges in Copperas Cove

First, we can tell you what not to do. Don’t message or Snapchat anyone and admit guilt, or apologize for anything. The next thing you should do is stay quiet and get yourself a Copperas Cove criminal defense attorney. Finally, keep this guidance in mind:

• Stay calm. Being arrested can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but it’s crucial to remain calm and composed. Avoid any actions or statements that could further complicate the situation.
• Invoke your right to remain silent. Under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, you have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. It is advisable to exercise this right and avoid answering any questions without your attorney present.
• Request an attorney. As soon as possible, request to speak with a criminal defense attorney. Having legal representation is vital in navigating the legal process and protecting your rights.
• Do not consent to searches. You have the right to refuse consent for searches of your person, belongings, or property. Always be polite but firm in asserting this right.
• Do provide identifying information. You should provide basic identifying information, such as your name and address, when asked by law enforcement.
• Do not discuss your case with ANYONE. Refrain from discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney, and certainly don’t post about it on social media. Anything you say to others could potentially be used against you in court.
• Gather information. Take note of the details surrounding your arrest, including the officers involved, the location, the time, and any witnesses present. This information can be helpful for your defense.
• Attend court hearings. Make sure to attend all scheduled court hearings and follow any conditions set by the court, such as reporting to a probation officer or attending counseling.

By following these steps, you can keep your case on the right path, and by working with a skilled and experienced attorney from our firm, you can protect your right to fair proceedings in the criminal justice system.

If you are facing deadly conduct charges, it is imperative you take them seriously. At Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers, we provide tenacious criminal defense services to clients throughout Central Texas. To schedule a consultation, call us or fill out our contact form. We’re based in Killeen and Copperas Cove, and proudly serve Coryell, Bell, Williamson, and McLennan Counties, and Temple, Harker Heights, Waco, and Belton.