The offense of Exploitation of Child, Elderly Individual, or Disabled Individual is classified as which degree of felony?

• A. First-degree felony
• B. State jail felony
• C. Third-degree felony
• D. Second-degree felony

Answer: (D)

The main idea being tested is how Texas classifies felonies by degree, which determines punishment. Exploitation of a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual is designated by statute as a second‑degree felony. That means it carries a punishment range of two to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. It’s more serious than a third‑degree felony or a state jail offense, but less serious than a first‑degree felony. The degree is set by the statute itself, reflecting the harm to a particularly vulnerable person, which is why this offense fits the second‑degree category.