Shoplifting in New York
Shoplifting is considered a crime in New York. If you are charged with shoplifting in New York, you could be subject to serious and harsh penalties. These penalties can include fines and even jail time.
Shoplifting as Larceny in New York
In New York, shoplifting is punished as larceny. Larceny is committed when one person takes, obtains or withholds, the property of another, wrongfully and with the intent to deprive the other person of their property. There are different classifications of larceny. The classifications are based on the amount that was stolen. The criminal penalties for larceny in New York could include any of the following:
- Petit Larceny. Shoplifting property of $1,000 or less is considered petit larceny. It is a Class A misdemeanor under the law. The penalty for petit larceny can be jail time of up to one year and/or a fine up to $1,000.00.
- Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree. Shoplifting property of more than $1,000 but equal to less than $3,000 is considered grand larceny in the fourth degree, or a Class E felony. The penalties for grand larceny in the fourth degree is up to four years in prison and/or a fine no more than the greater of $5,000.00 or double the shoplifters gain.
- Grand Larceny in the Third Degree. Shoplifting property more than $3,000 but less than or equal to $5,000 is considered grand larceny in the third degree, or a Class D felony. The penalties for grand larceny in the third degree could include prison time of up to seven years and/or a fine no more than the greater of $5,000.00 or double the shoplifters gain.
- Grand Larceny in the Second Degree. Shoplifting proper more than $50,000 or equal to or less than $1,000,000.00 is considered grand larceny in the second degree, or a Class C felony. The penalties for this Class C felony can include up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine no more than the greater of $5,000.00 or double the shoplifters gain.
- Grand Larceny in the First Degree. Shoplifting property of more than $1,000,000.00 is consider grand larceny in the first degree, or a Class B felony. The penalties for this Class B felony may include a prison sentence of up to 25 years and/or a fine no more than the greater of $5,000.00 or double the shoplifters gain.
If you’ve been charged with shoplifting in New York, you should seek the help of an attorney. An experienced criminal defense attorney can advise you of your rights and offer you the assistance and guidance you need.
Kevin T. Conway has over 30 years of experience as a Spring Valley criminal attorney handling DUI, DWI, traffic violations, violent crimes, sex crimes, illegal gun possession, shoplifting, and juvenile crimes. Attorney Conway is also experienced in commercial law matters, zoning law, and estate planning. If you need a Rockland County criminal lawyer, contact our Spring Valley office for a free consultation.