What condition changes bigamy to a 2nd degree felony according to Texas Penal Code?

Bigamy is generally considered a crime where an individual enters into a marriage with someone while still legally married to another person. In Texas Penal Code, the severity of the offense can change depending on specific circumstances surrounding the case.

When it comes to the condition that elevates bigamy to a 2nd degree felony, if the victim is 17 years old, it is a notable factor. The law recognizes that individuals who are 17 may be more vulnerable and can be subject to exploitation, thus harshening the penalty for the offending party. This differentiation reflects the legal system's intention to protect younger individuals from being subjected to illegal marriages, especially considering the potential for manipulative or coercive situations in such relationships.

Other factors, such as the age of the victim or how the marriage was conducted, may impact the case but do not specifically raise the charge to a 2nd degree felony as being 17 does. Hence, the correct choice centers on the age of the victim in connection with the crime of bigamy.