Larceny, the legal term for theft in New York State, refers to a crime in which a person “wrongfully takes, obtains, or withholds” property and intends to deprive the owner of it. The consequences for such an act are typically based on the monetary value of the property in question. The grounds for left and larceny charges, the differences in those charges, and the potential consequences that come with petit and grand larceny in the state of New York depend on a number of various factors.
Understanding Larceny Charges
The act of larceny is something above and beyond simply taking an item from someone. For example, there are many illegal acts that are considered forms of theft, including:
- Embezzlement
- Obtaining property through false pretense
- Issuing bad checks
- Obtaining property through extortion
- Acquiring and withholding lost property
Additionally, there are distinct classifications and consequences for various theft crimes, including all of the following:
- Petit Larceny – The lowest level of theft. Unlawfully obtained property or services do not exceed $1,000. Classified as a Class A misdemeanor. Consequences may include imprisonment for up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000 upon conviction.
- Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree – Value of the property or services exceeds $1,000 but is less than $3,000, or the property stolen is a firearm, credit/debit card, or motor vehicle (value irrelevant). Considered a Class E felony. Consequences of a conviction may include imprisonment for up to four years and a fine of up to $5,000 (or double the offender’s gain).
- Grand Larceny in the Third Degree – Value of the stolen goods or services exceeds $3,000 but is less than $50,000. Classified as a Class D felony. Conviction could result in up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000 (or double the offender’s gain).
- Grand Larceny in the Second Degree – Value of the stolen services or property is greater than $50,000, or the theft involved certain types of extortion. Classified as a Class C felony. Consequences could include imprisonment for up to 15 years and a fine of up to $15,000.
- Grand Larceny in the First Degree – Value of the goods or services exceeds one million dollars. Classified as a Class B felony. Sentence may include imprisonment of up to 25 years and a fine of up to $30,000.
On top of the legal consequences of conviction, the offender may suffer social embarrassment and shame within their community. They may also be barred from the victimized establishment. Felony convictions also carry collateral, non-legal consequences, such as being barred from certain types of employment or difficulty in finding quality housing upon release.
Fight the Charges and Contact a Manhattan Theft Defense Attorney
Charges for theft and larceny should be taken seriously, as the consequences can be life-altering. Our competent dedicated New York City criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights throughout the process, helping you fight for either a less severe sentence or complete dismissal of the charges. Schedule your consultation before speaking to the authorities. Call JOEY JACKSON LAW, PLLC at 1-833-JOEYJACKSON or 1-833-563-9522 today.
Source:
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/PEN/P3TJA155