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Shoplifting Laws in New York: What You Need to Know

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In New York, shoplifting is prosecuted under the state's larceny statutes. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen property.

Petit Larceny (Penal Law §155.25): Stealing property valued at $1,000 or less is a Class A misdemeanor, carrying up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $1,000.

Grand Larceny: Stealing property over $1,000 is a felony. Fourth-degree grand larceny ($1,000–$3,000) is a Class E felony with up to 4 years in prison.

First-time offenders may be eligible for an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD), which can result in charges being dropped after 6 months of good behavior. Retailers can also pursue civil penalties of up to 5 times the value of the merchandise.