Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

The answer to your question is a little more complex than whatever the officers told you. What they're talking about is that once you turn 17, he can't be charged criminally with Sexual Assault of a Child or related offenses, even if the two of you get caught in the act. Until you turn 18, though, you are still legally considered to be a child for civil purposes. That means that your mom still gets to tell you what to do and who you can do it with, so yes, she can forbid you to see him. I'm not going to get into the civil end of things, since I doubt she'd bother pursuing that, but as far as criminal charges go, I think probably he's alright unless he starts talking about you moving in with him, which is definitely not okay under Texas law.

That said, do yourself a favor and stay away from this guy. I know you probably have a hard time seeing it this way, but legal or not, it's just not normal for a guy that age to be interested in a 17 year old. I know it seems flattering that he would want to be with you, and that he probably seems much more together than guys your age, but there's just something there that's not right about that. When you're in your late 20s, 17 seems very young and very far removed from where you are in life. Wanting to be involved with a 17 year old very probably means he's got problems and is at best looking for someone he can easily impress and control. Don't let that someone be you--it's not worth it in the long run. It may not seem like it right now, but your mom's trying to look out for you.