Theft & Property
Grand Larceny
Grand larceny is one of those charges that catches people off guard. You may not have thought of what you did as "grand larceny" — but in New York, stealing anything valued at $1,000 or more is a felony. And at higher dollar amounts, the felony becomes more serious with the potential for significant prison time.
Whether you are facing a charge involving a few thousand dollars or a large amount, the most important thing right now is understanding exactly what you are charged with, what the realistic outcomes are, and what a defense looks like in your specific case.
Grand Larceny in New York — The Classifications
Grand larceny is governed by New York Penal Law §§ 155.30–155.42.
Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (§ 155.30): Property valued at more than $1,000. Class E felony. Up to 4 years in prison.
Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (§ 155.35): Property valued at more than $3,000. Class D felony. Up to 7 years in prison.
Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (§ 155.40): Property valued at more than $50,000. Class C felony. Up to 15 years in prison.
Grand Larceny in the First Degree (§ 155.42): Property valued at more than $1,000,000. Class B felony. Up to 25 years in prison.
Grand larceny also applies regardless of dollar amount when the property stolen is: a firearm; a vehicle; public records; credit cards; or property taken directly from a person.
How These Cases Are Defended
Larceny requires intent to deprive the owner of their property. Cases where the defendant believed they had a right to the property, where there was a legitimate business dispute, or where the valuation of the stolen property is contested can all be effectively defended. The prosecution must prove the value of the stolen property beyond a reasonable doubt — that valuation is often contestable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in New York?
Petit larceny is theft of property valued at less than $1,000 — a Class A misdemeanor. Grand larceny is theft of property valued at $1,000 or more — a felony. The line between the two is not always obvious, and the valuation of the property is a critical factual issue.
Can grand larceny charges be reduced to a misdemeanor?
A grand larceny felony can sometimes be reduced to petit larceny (a misdemeanor) through plea negotiations, particularly for first-time offenders, cases where the property value is close to the $1,000 threshold, or cases with strong mitigating circumstances. Restitution of the stolen property or value is often a factor in whether a reduction is available.
Speak with Yvonne directly
Felony theft charges deserve serious defense. Call (845) 290-2492 today. Se habla español.