Judge John Stevens Jr. STUNS Defendant: “Even a Pack of Gum Is a Felony Now!”

In Jefferson County, Texas, Judge John Stevens Jr. presides over the combined hearings of Terry Lynn Broussard, who faces both a probation revocation and a new theft charge.

🚨 Case 1 – Probation Revocation (Cause No. 21-38622)

Broussard was on five years deferred probation for a state jail felony theft.

She admitted violating probation by:

Failing to report for multiple months,

Not updating her phone number,

Failing to show proof of community service.

Judge Stevens clarifies:

“You’re punished not just for the value of the property — but for the record.
Two or more thefts, and it’s a felony every time — even if it’s just a pack of gum.”

The defendant explains family conflicts and financial hardship, admitting she missed check-ins but wants to “fix it.”

The court revokes her deferred probation, finds her guilty of state jail felony theft, but shows mercy:

“I’ll suspend the two-year sentence and put you on regular probation for four years — long enough to pay back the restitution.”

Restitution ordered: $119.70 to Jesse Ramirez (H-E-B Pantry Theft Victim).

“You pay it back, you’re done. That’s how you fix it.”

🚨 Case 2 – New Theft Case (Cause No. 25-CR-262)

Charged with theft under $2,500 from Dillard’s, involving ~$600 worth of merchandise.

Prosecutor confirms all items were recovered — no restitution owed.

Judge Stevens warns:

“Two or more prior theft convictions — that makes any theft a felony.”

Broussard pleads guilty, admitting to prior theft convictions in 2002 and 2018.

Judge applies Texas Penal Code §12.44(a) — reducing punishment from a felony to a Class A misdemeanor sentence:

“You’re convicted of a felony, but punished like a misdemeanor — 45 days in county jail.”
“Be careful — the next time, you won’t get this deal.”

Sentence: 45 days jail (time served), running concurrent with her other probation term.

⚖️ Judge Stevens’s Core Message:

“You keep stealing, it’ll always be a felony — no matter the amount.”
“I’m giving you a second chance. Don’t make me regret it.”
“You pay your debt, and you move on. That’s justice.”

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