Penal Code · §37.09
Tampering with Physical Evidence
Elements
- Knowing that an investigation or official proceeding is pending or in progress
- A person
- Alters, destroys, or conceals any record, document, or thing
- With intent to impair its verity, legibility, or availability as evidence in the investigation or official proceeding
Penalty
Third-degree felony — 2 to 10 years TDCJ + up to $10,000 fine (§12.34).
Enhancements
Second-degree felony if the thing altered, destroyed, or concealed is a human corpse — 2 to 20 years TDCJ + up to $10,000 fine (§12.33). Class A misdemeanor for failing to report having found a human corpse.