Penalties for Theft in Albany

The penalties for these offenses depend on the specific charge. However, they can range from a maximum of one year in jail for misdemeanor level offenses and fines, to up to twenty-five years in prison for the most severe felonies. Fines are generally double the property taken or $5,000, whichever is greater.

There are Five Levels of Theft Charges

New York separates theft into five levels. Each of these levels is defined by the value of the stolen items or their identity. Our team of Albany theft attorneys have experience defending each of these charges.

Petit Larceny

This is simply stated as the theft of any property. When considered in the context of the other theft crimes, this counts as any theft under the value of $1,000. This is a class A misdemeanor.

Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree

This is a theft valued at between $1,000 and $3,000, but can also include theft of credit cards, items of a religious nature, or any public record. This is a class E felony.

Grand Larceny in the Third Degree

Here the value of the item allegedly stolen is between $3,000 and $50,000, or when a person steals from an ATM. A conviction here is a class D felony.

Grand Larceny in the Second Degree

The value of the items here range from $50,000 to $1,000,000. Alternatively, this applies when a person commits theft through the use of extortion. This is a class C felony.

Grand Larceny in the First Degree

The most serious allegation involving theft is a class B felony. All thefts valued at above $1,000,000 are first degree charges.

Help From an Albany Theft Attorney

An allegation of theft is never a minor matter. Even thefts of small items are misdemeanor level offenses that could result in a jail sentence. More serious allegations are felonies that could result in prison time and forever label a person as a felon.

It is critical that people accused of theft gain every advantage possible. Our Albany theft lawyers know that every case is unique. We work with clients to understand their side of the story, talk to witnesses, examine evidence, formulate a defense, and present that defense to the court. The sooner you contact us, the quicker we can get to work for you. Contact us today via email at , or by calling 518-218-7100 to schedule your free consultation.

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