Assault Against an Elderly or Disabled Individual

Texas Penal Code § 22.04 criminalizes causing injury to an elderly individual (65 or older) or to a disabled individual. The offense level depends on the defendant's mental state and the severity of the injury: intentional or knowing conduct causing serious bodily injury is a First-Degree Felony punishable by 5–99 years or life, while reckless conduct or lesser injuries carry reduced felony ranges. Because the statute imposes a duty of care on those responsible for elderly or disabled persons, injuries caused by omission — such as failing to provide food, medicine, or medical care — are also criminally punishable. A conviction is a prohibited offense for firearm possession under federal law in many circumstances.