Theft is a common criminal charge in Newburgh, NY. Theft crimes encompass various criminal offenses in New York. For example, petit theft is a less serious charge than grand larceny. However, all theft crimes should be treated as serious criminal offenses that could result in jail time, fines, and collateral consequences.
For almost four decades, our top-rated criminal defense attorneys have fought for the rights of the accused in New York. We have decades of experience in criminal law and commit our full attention and resources to each client.
1If you’ve been arrested for theft crimes in New York, contact Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys, for a free consultation with our Newburgh theft crimes lawyers. You can reach us today at (845) 566-5345 for help.
How Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help You Fight a Theft Charge in New York
New York treats theft charges seriously. The law imposes severe punishments for convictions. Having an experienced theft crimes attorney on your side is crucial to fight these charges. Our lawyers have over 50 years of combined experience.
At Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys, our lawyers have an excellent track record of winning cases for our clients. Our attorneys have the highest rating for professional excellence from Martindale-Hubbell – the AV Preeminent Rating. We are highly rated with The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, Avvo, and Super Lawyers.
When you hire our award-winning Newburgh criminal defense lawyers, you can trust that we will aggressively fight to protect your rights and best interests by:
- Explain the charges against you and possible defenses
- Investigate the circumstances that led to the theft charges to gather evidence and develop a solid defense strategy
- Evaluate the state’s evidence of theft to identify weaknesses and potential violations of your rights
- Negotiate with prosecutors for a fair plea agreement, including potentially reducing charges and using alternative sentencing when available
- Aggressively advocate for you during all court appearances, including going to trial if that is in your best interest
We understand that being charged with theft in Newburgh, NY, is a serious matter. We also understand how overwhelming and emotionally stressful it can be to face a criminal conviction. Our legal team will provide trusted advice, guidance, and support as we fight to protect your rights, freedom, and future.
Contact Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys, to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Newburgh theft crimes attorney.
Overview of Theft Crimes in Newburgh, New York
Theft is generally defined as taking someone’s property without their consent with the intent of depriving them of the use of the property. Theft can include taking money, personal property, personal information, and other items of value.
New York laws generally refer to theft crimes as larceny. The law does not require a person to keep the property they stole. A person can be charged with larceny if they take property and immediately give it to someone else or sell it. Transferring or selling stolen goods can result in additional charges for larceny.
What Are the Classifications of Theft Crimes in Newburgh, NY?
New York classifies larceny into two types of charges based on the value of the property or items taken and the severity of the offense:
Petit Larceny
Petit larceny is classified as stealing property or items valued at $1,000 or less. It is a Class A misdemeanor offense.
Grand Larceny
Grand larceny is a felony charge. It applies when the value of the stolen items is more than $1,000, or the crime involves specific types of property.
There are four degrees of grand larceny:
- Fourth Degree Grand Larceny: This charge is the least serious of the grand larceny charges. It is a Class E felony offense for theft of property valued at over $1,000. Examples include stealing a firearm, jewelry, or other items worth more than $1,000 per item.
- Third Degree Grand Larceny: You can be charged with third-degree grand larceny for stealing property worth $3,000 or more. Third-degree larceny is also used when a person targets an ATM for theft. This larceny is a Class D felony.
- Second Degree Grand Larceny: Stealing property worth more than $50,000 is second degree larceny. It is a Class C felony offense. It also applies if extortion associated with threats is used to steal items.
- First Degree Grand Larceny: This is the most serious larceny charge. It is a Class B felony offense for theft of property exceeding $1 million.
The charges dictate the punishments you may receive for a conviction of larceny. Understanding the charges helps you understand the potential penalties.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in New York
A conviction for theft in Newburgh can result in fines and jail/prison sentences. The amount of the fines and the incarceration time depend on the offense. Examples of penalties for larceny include:
- Petit Larceny: As a Class A misdemeanor, you can face a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to one year in jail.
- Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree: As a Class E felony, the maximum prison sentence is four years.
- Grand Larceny in the Third Degree: As a Class D felony, there are potential fines and up to seven years in prison.
- Grand Larceny in the Second Degree: As a Class C felony, there are potential fines and up to 15 years in prison.
- Grand Larceny in the First Degree: As a Class B felony, you can serve up to 25 years in prison and pay fines.
The above fines and penalties may be enhanced for repeat offenders. You may pay higher fines and serve more time if you have prior convictions for theft crimes.
What Collateral Consequences Are Associated With Theft Convictions in Newburgh, NY?
In addition to the criminal penalties the court may impose for a larceny conviction, you may also experience several collateral consequences. These consequences and negative impacts affect numerous aspects of your life.
Collateral consequences for a larceny conviction include:
- Employment and Career Issues: A larceny conviction can limit job opportunities, especially in fields that require background checks or professional licenses. Employers may be hesitant to hire individuals with theft-related offenses, and licensing boards may suspend, revoke, or deny licenses based on such convictions.
- Problems Obtaining Housing: It may also be challenging to find housing with a criminal record. Landlords may be hesitant to rent to someone with convictions for theft crimes.
- Family Court and Custody Matters: A criminal history can also negatively impact custody and visitation matters in family court. Your child’s other parent may argue that your criminal history is evidence of being an unfit parent.
- Immigration Issues: A criminal history can impact applications for citizenship or legal status. Certain criminal convictions could result in deportation.
A theft conviction in Newburgh, NY, can lead to far-reaching consequences beyond the courtroom.
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me With Defenses to Theft Crimes in New York?
A criminal defense lawyer understands the various defense strategies available for larceny charges. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your attorney may use one or more defenses, including:
- Ownership or Consent: You may argue that you had a reasonable belief that the property was rightfully your property to take. Another argument you may make is that you reasonably believed you had permission from the owner to take the property. The permission could be implied or explicit.
- Lack of Intent: Your attorney may argue that you did not intend to take the property to deprive the owner of the use of the property. For example, you thought you had the authority to borrow the property and return it later. If so, there may be a lack of intent to prove larceny.
- Improper Search or Seizure: If law enforcement officers conducted an unlawful search and seizure, evidence recovered from the search may be inadmissible in court. Without the evidence, it could be difficult or impossible for the prosecution to prove their case.
- False Allegations: Someone may be accusing you of stealing property to cover up their crime or to get even with you for a perceived slight. In other situations, an accuser may have made an honest mistake by naming the wrong person.
Facing theft charges in New York can be overwhelming, but a skilled criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
What Should I Do if I’m Arrested for Theft Crimes in Newburgh, NY?
First, you need to realize that you need a criminal defense lawyer, even if you are innocent. Therefore, contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Exercise your right to remain silent until you can speak with an attorney. Discussing the matter with the police or the prosecutor could make your case more difficult to defend. Do not answer questions or make a statement without an attorney present.
Learn More During a Free Consultation With Our Newburgh Theft Crimes Attorneys
Our knowledgeable criminal law attorneys analyze the facts and circumstances of your theft case in Newburgh, NY, to provide sound legal advice to help you make the best decision for your situation. Call Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys, for a free case review with our Newburgh theft crimes lawyers. A strong legal defense increases your chances of success in court.