Poughkeepsie Shoplifting Lawyers

New York Shoplifting Laws & Penalties

Shoplifting can be charged as either Petit Larceny or Grand Larceny, depending on the value of the items stolen. Behaviors that may lead to a shoplifting charge include hiding a smaller object inside a larger object, direct theft, and changing price tags. The severity of the consequences associated with a conviction is dependent largely upon the retail value of the property that was taken.

What are the Penalties for Shoplifting?

The following is a breakdown of the theft laws and their penalties in New York:

• Petit larceny – Stealing an item or merchandise valued up to $1,000, then you will be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a jail term of up to one year and a maximum fine of $1,000.

• Fourth-degree grand larceny – Stealing an item or merchandise worth over $1,000 is a Class E felony, which carries a prison sentence of up to four years and a maximum fine of $5,000 (or double the amount gained from the offense).

• Third-degree grand larceny – Stealing an item or merchandise worth more than $3,000 is a Class D felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to seven years and a fine of up to $5,000 (double the amount gained from the offense).

• Second-degree grand larceny – Stealing an item or merchandise valued over $50,000 is a Class C felony, which carries a prison term of up to 15 years and a maximum fine of $15,000.

• First-degree grand larceny – Stealing an item or merchandise valued more than $1 million is a Class B felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to 25 years and a maximum fine of $30,000.

Additionally, the store owner or merchant could also hold you civilly liable for the item or merchandise if it is not returned in a sellable condition. If you are under 18 years of age, then your parents or guardians could be held liable.

It is extremely important to speak with a seasoned criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you or a loved one is facing a theft charge. There are many opportunities for a dedicated our legal team to fight for your rights and negotiate to get the charges reduced or dropped.

What Is Larceny of Merchandise?

Shoplifting incidents can also be referred to a larceny of merchandise and can occur from many different events, and often arise as a result of a misunderstanding or a simple error. In many cases there can be significant obstacles to the prosecution’s case due to a lack of clear and conclusive evidence. A knowledgeable defense lawyer can help to cast doubt upon the prosecution’s version of events, or plea bargain for a lesser charge when appropriate.

If you or a loved one is facing shoplifting charges, you need to hire an experienced Poughkeepsie theft lawyer as soon as possible to get to work on your case. At McCabe Coleman Ventosa & Patterson PLLC, our dedicated legal team will seize every opportunity to fight for your rights both before and during trial.

Contact us today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation with our seasoned criminal defense team. Call (845) 209-1355.