Tuesday, March 24, 2015

FRESHMAN SERIES: Stealing in NY (Petit Larceny)

What is Petit Larceny in New York State?


Courtesy scaredmonkeys.com


The lowest form of theft crime in New York is "petit larceny" Penal Law, s. 155.25

Here is how it breaks down: 

"A person is guilty of Petit Larceny when he steals property.  Petit Larceny is a Class A misdemeanor." 

Penalties: 

-up to 1 year in jail
-up to 3 years probation
-fines $0-$1000
-surcharge of $200 (city ct) / $205 (town ct)
-permanent criminal record 

What does it all mean?

In New York, if you steal anything worth $0-$1,000 it constitutes Petit Larceny.   

For example, stealing the following things constitute this crime:

-a tube of chapstick
-a single soda can
-a bag of chips
-a candy bar
-piece of clothing
-a pen

This is just a heads up that theft crimes are handled harshly in New York...

Note: if it's worth more than $1,000 or is a credit card or bank card or check ...then the crime gets bumped up to a Class E Felony (state prison is on the table).  

*If you are charged with a crime, always consult a local licensed attorney.



BY:  Attorney Mike Cyr 

P:  607-229-5184
E:  mike.ithacadwi@gmail.com
Twitter:   @ithacadwi