New York’s larceny law now makes repeated shoplifting incidents or thefts from multiple stores a felony if the total stolen amount exceeds $1,000. This law makes it possible to charge individuals with grand larceny in the fourth degree, a Class E felony, if they steal goods or merchandise as part of a common plan or ongoing intent to steal, and the total value of the stolen items adds up to more than $1,000. This applies even if the thefts happened at different stores or involved different owners.  This change in the law took effect on July 19, 2024, and is codified in Penal Law § 155.30.

What Does the New Grand Larceny Law Say?

  • A person is guilty of grand larceny in the fourth degree, a Class E felony, when the value of the property exceeds one thousand dollars or;
  • The property consists of retail goods or merchandise stolen as part of a common scheme or ongoing plan to steal from one or more places; and the total value of the stolen goods adds up to more than $1,000, even if the thefts happened at different stores or involved different owners.
  • The law specifically states that prosecutors can combine the value of stolen items to reach the felony threshold of $1,000 – regardless of whether the goods or merchandise were stolen from the same owner.

What Are the Penalties if Charged with Grand Larceny?

Because grand larceny in the fourth degree is classified as a Class E felony, individuals convicted under this statute may face:

  • Up to 4 years in prison.
  • Up to a $5,000 fine or double the amount gained from the theft, whichever is greater.
  • Up to 5 years of probation.

How Is This Different from Previous Theft Law?

  • Before this change, prosecutors needed to prove a single theft exceeded $1,000 to charge grand larceny in the fourth degree. Now, under penal law § 155.30, prosecutors can aggregate the value of multiple thefts even if the stolen goods come from different owners or locations.

What This Means for Shoplifting in New York

  • With this new law, repeated shoplifting incidents can now lead to a felony if the total stolen amount exceeds $1,000. Retailers and law enforcement agencies have pushed for this change to combat organized retail theft and repeat offenders who previously faced only misdemeanor charges.

At LaMarche Safranko Law, our team will carefully evaluate the specifics of your situation, inform you of your legal rights, and help you determine the best course of action if you are accused of a misdemeanor or felony. If you have been charged with a crime don’t waste time, call 844-Accused.