The Palisades Mall, one of the largest in the United States, calls Rockland County home. As such, the prevalence of shoplifting should surprise no one. If you face shoplifting charges, please read on, then contact an experienced Rockland County shoplifting attorney to learn what you should know about shoplifting in the state of New York.
The basics of shoplifting in New York
In the state of New York, you do not even have to leave a store with a stolen item to be charged. Authorities might arrest you, charge you and convict you of shoplifting for concealing an item on your person, even if you claim you intended to pay for it. Nor can you simply return the item. New York store owners know their rights and will take aggressive action against alleged shoplifters.
What are the penalties for shoplifting in New York?
By and large, your charges will depend on the value of the items you allegedly stole. The greater the value, the greater the penalties. The penalties for shoplifting and theft offenses are as follows:
- Petit larceny: Property valued at $1,000 or less, a class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to a $1,000
- Grand larceny in the fourth degree: Property valued between $1,000 and $3,000, a class E felony punishable by up to 4 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000 or double the offender’s gain
- Grand larceny in the third degree: Property valued between $3,000 and $50,000, a class D felony punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000 or double the offender’s gain
- Second Degree Grand Larceny: Property valued between $50,000 and $1 million, a class C felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000 or double the offender’s gain
- Grand larceny in the first degree: Property valued at greater than $1 million, a class B felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000 or double the offender’s gain
You should also note that you may also face civil liability to the store owner.
How can a Rockland County criminal defense attorney help you?
Reaching out to a skilled Rockland County criminal defense attorney to discuss your next steps can make all the difference in whether or not you will sustain a conviction. A conviction can negatively impact the rest of your life. Let a seasoned legal professional fight for you and your future. Give us a call today.
Contact our experienced Rockland County firm
Those facing criminal charges in New York need a strong Rockland County defense attorney who knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. Fortunately, our firm is ready to put over 30 years of experience to work for you. Call today or contact The Law Office of Carl Spector online to schedule a free confidential consultation. We are ready to help you go on living life positively, happily, and free from the burdens of a criminal conviction–all you have to do is ask.
