Pickpocketing and Grand Larceny From the Person
Why Pickpocketing is a Serious Crime in New York
Theft can be committed in a variety of different ways. You might steal someone's property from their car or their home, steal property using the internet as a facilitator, or steal property directly from a person. Stealing directly from an individual is commonly called pickpocketing. While this might seem minor, New York's penal code has harsh penalties for pickpocketing. Pickpocketing is actually a form of grand larceny, regardless of the value of the items that were stolen. All grand larceny convictions are felonies. Usually, the value of the property stolen is what determines whether a charge of grand larceny or petit larceny is brought against the defendant. But in cases of pickpocketing, the charge is automatically upped to grand larceny. If you've been charged with pickpocketing, it's essential for you to contact a defense attorney in New York before you speak to the police. Spodek Law Group has experienced criminal attorneys who can help.Understanding Larceny in New York
Definition of Larceny
Larceny refers to thefts that involve the removal of property from its rightful owner with intention of depriving the owner permanently of that property. "Property" doesn't have to be money - it can refer to nearly anything that has monetary value, including jewelry, technology, and documents.Petit Larceny vs. Grand Larceny
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Why Stealing From a Person is Always a Felony
If you take property from an individual, and the property is valued at $25, but you stole it directly from their person, you will face a felony charge rather than a misdemeanor charge. This is because of how direct the contact with the victim is. This level of contact increases the potential for injury or violence, even if none occur at the time of the theft.Sentencing for Grand Larceny From the Person
Grand larceny from the person is a Class E felony, which means that you might be sentenced to up to four years in prison. It's also possible that a judge will only sentence you to probation; it will all depend on the facts of the case.The Exception for Higher-Value Property
The exception to this rule is when the property you stole is worth more than $3,000. In these cases, you would be charged with either a Class D, Class C, or Class B felony.What Counts as "Theft From the Person"
Fourth degree grand larceny doesn't refer just to pickpocketing in the traditional sense of removing items from the person's pocket. Its definition encompasses all theft where you stole the property from another individual. Snatching a backpack, purse, or briefcase is also considered theft from the person, even if you didn't lift anything out of their pockets.The Different Degrees of Grand Larceny
| Degree | Property Value | Classification |
| Fourth Degree Grand Larceny | Less than $3,000 (or theft from person regardless of value) | Class E felony |
| Third Degree Grand Larceny | Between $3,000 and $50,000 | Class D felony |
| Second Degree Grand Larceny | Between $50,000 and $1,000,000 | Class C felony |
| First Degree Grand Larceny | More than one million dollars | Class B felony |
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Additional Criminal Charges You May Face
It's also possible that you will face other criminal charges when you're charged with fourth degree grand larceny. Because you stole the item from the person, you might find yourself faced with an assault charge of some kind. You'll find out what charges have been leveled against you at the arraignment following the arrest.The Importance of Legal Representation
It's important to have your attorney at the arraignment, as they will be able to understand the charges and discuss your options with you. Sometimes there are rehabilitative options that can make it easier to get a light conviction. You might be able to make a plea deal with the prosecution to plead guilty to lesser charges.Frequently Asked Questions
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Invoke both rights immediately and contact Spodek Law Group.
Every case is different. We offer free initial consultations to evaluate your case and discuss our fee structure.
An arraignment is your first court appearance where charges are formally read. You enter a plea and bail may be set. Having an attorney present is critical.
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