What is Larceny in New York?

Crimes that involve the theft of property are taken seriously in New York and convictions can result in substantial fines, terms of imprisonment, and other lasting repercussions. If you are facing charges related to larceny, it is crucial that you understand your legal rights and options. To learn more, read on and obtain the help of an experienced Stony Point, NY criminal defense attorney today.

What is Larceny in NY?

Under New York Code § 155.05, a person is guilty of larceny when they “with intent to deprive another of property or to appropriate the same to himself or to a third person, he wrongfully takes, obtains or withholds such property from an owner thereof.”

The wrongful taking or withholding of another person’s property can be committed in a variety of ways. New York law recognizes the following methods of committing larceny.

• Trespassory taking
• Trick
• Embezzlement
• Obtaining property by false pretenses
• Acquiring lost property
• Issuing a bad check
• False promise
• Extortion
• Wage theft
• Deed theft

Any of these actions can be considered larceny and result in significant penalties and legal repercussions.

What Are the Penalties for Larceny in New York?

New York law recognizes several types of theft, ranging from petit all the way to first-degree grand larceny. Each offense will be accompanied by a variety of penalties depending on the details of the situation. Consider the following general sentencing guidelines.

Petit larceny:

• An individual steals property
• Class A misdemeanor
• Up to 364 days in jail
• Fines of up to $1,000

Grand larceny in the fourth degree:

• An individual steals property valued at over $1,000 or the property is certain files, scientific materials, credit cards, etc.
• Class E felony
• Up to 4 years in prison

Grand larceny in the third degree:

• An individual steals property valued at over $3,000 or the property is an ATM, commercial property, etc.
• Class D felony
• Up to 7 years in prison

Grand larceny in the second degree:

• An individual steals property valued at over $50,000 or the property is obtained by extortion
• Class C felony
• Up to 15 years in prison

Grand larceny in the first degree:

• An individual steals property valued at over $1,000,000 or the property is stolen out of a home occupied by at least one person, owned by an elderly or disabled person, or involves 3 or more residential properties
• Class B felony
• Up to 25 years in prison

The financial repercussions for grand larceny will vary depending on the details of the circumstances. As established, the penalties associated with this type of conviction are quite severe. Understanding your legal rights and defensive options is crucial in protecting your future and interests. Reach out to a skilled attorney at The Law Office of Kevin T. Conway today to discuss your situation and secure representation.