An arrest on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) – whether in Nassau, Suffolk, or Queens – can turn a simple commute into a criminal case. Knowing your rights and understanding the process is crucial. The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC has helped many clients handle LIRR-related arrests and achieve the best possible outcomes. If you need legal help with a LIRR arrest, contact a trusted Long Island criminal defense lawyer who understands the local courts and can protect your rights.

Common LIRR Arrest Charges on Long Island

Below are the four most common LIRR arrest charges in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and Queens:

1. Theft of Services (Fare Evasion on the LIRR)

If you ride without a valid ticket or jump the turnstile at busy stations like Jamaica, Mineola, or Ronkonkoma, you can be charged with theft of services. This is a class A misdemeanor in New York.

  • It’s more than just paying a fine – this charge can result in a permanent criminal record.
  • Even if you later pay the fare or are confused about your LIRR Ticket, MetroCard, or app ticket, police often issue summonses or make arrests.

How we help: As a top-rated LIRR arrest defense lawyer in Nassau County, we often negotiate to reduce or dismiss theft of services charges, especially for first-time offenders. Visit our Theft of Services defense page to learn more.

2. Disorderly Conduct on the Train or Platform

Disorderly conduct charges often arise when MTA police believe you caused a disturbance on the train or platform. This might include yelling, refusing to comply with officers, or making a scene. While disorderly conduct is classified as a violation—not a misdemeanor—it can still negatively affect your record. In New York, disorderly conduct carries a possible jail sentence of up to 15 days.

Example: A passenger at Hicksville Station yelled at a conductor after missing their train. Police claimed it was disorderly conduct and issued a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT).

Although this charge might seem minor, it can harm job prospects and immigration cases if left unresolved. See our page on Disorderly Conduct defense.

3. Harassment During a Dispute

Harassment charges often come up when MTA police believe you threatened, followed, or touched someone during an argument on the LIRR, even if no physical injury occurred. Second Degree Harassment is a common charge for disputes between passengers or with staff.

It’s important to know that harassment has higher levels and degrees, which carry more serious penalties depending on the circumstances.

Example: Two passengers argue over loud music or a blocked seat. One accuses the other of threats or “getting in their face.” Harassment charges often come from conflicting stories.

Having an attorney who can review surveillance footage and witness statements is crucial for your defense. Visit our Long Island Harassment defense page for more.

4. Public Intoxication or Alcohol-Related Incidents

Public intoxication alone is not a crime in New York. But you can be arrested if you act disorderly, refuse police orders, or trespass on restricted areas like tracks.

Typical arrest situations include:

  • Being drunk and belligerent at a station
  • Causing a disturbance on the train after drinking
  • Passing out or being unable to communicate with MTA police

We fight to dismiss or reduce these charges, especially if it was an isolated incident with no harm done.

What to Do After an LIRR Arrest

If you are arrested or given a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) after a Long Island Rail Road incident, follow these crucial steps to protect yourself:

  • Stay calm and comply with officers. Avoid arguing or resisting.
  • Do not plead guilty without consulting a lawyer.
  • Contact a Long Island MTA police arrest defense attorney familiar with Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens courts.

Practical tips:

  • Stay respectful but firm with officers.
  • Do not answer questions without your lawyer present.
  • If possible, get the officer’s name and badge number.
  • Call your attorney as soon as possible.

Where is an LIRR Arrest Processed?

After an LIRR arrest, your court location depends on where the incident occurred. Long Island and Queens cases are processed here:

  • Nassau County First District Court (Hempstead)
    99 Main Street, Hempstead, NY 11550
  • Suffolk County District Court (Central Islip)
    320 Carleton Avenue, Central Islip, NY 11722
  • Queens Criminal Court (Kew Gardens)
    125-01 Queens Blvd, Kew Gardens, NY 11415

Each court has its own procedures. A local criminal defense lawyer with LIRR arrest experience is key.

Can Police Arrest You After the Incident?

Yes. Sometimes police investigate later. You may get a call from an MTA detective or a visit at home. You may not want to speak with police without your lawyer present. Instead, you can politely decline and call your attorney immediately.

Can LIRR Arrest Charges Be Dismissed or Reduced?

Yes. Many first-time LIRR arrests resolve without convictions. We help clients by:

  • Seeking Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD)
  • Negotiating reduced non-criminal violations
  • Fighting charges at trial when needed

Serving Nassau County, Suffolk County, and NYC

We provide reliable LIRR arrest defense in:

If you face LIRR charges in Nassau, Suffolk, or Queens, contact us for a free case review.

FAQs About LIRR Arrests on Long Island

Q: Can I be arrested for not paying my fare?
A: Yes, fare evasion can lead to theft of services charges, which is a criminal offense.

Q: What happens if I get a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT)?
A: A DAT means you must appear in court on a set date. Ignoring it can lead to a warrant.

Q: Will a disorderly conduct charge ruin my record?
A: It may show up on background checks and can affect jobs or immigration if unresolved.

Q: Can I refuse to speak with MTA police after an arrest?
A: Yes, you have the right to remain silent and request an attorney.

Q: How long does an LIRR arrest case take?
A: It varies, but many cases resolve within a few months if handled promptly.

Q: An MTA detective called me after an LIRR incident—should I talk to them?
A: Don’t speak to the detective. Politely decline and call your lawyer right away. Even a casual conversation can lead to charges.

Q: Can I clear my record after a first-time LIRR arrest?
A: Yes, in many cases. We work to get charges sealed or dismissed so you can move forward without a lasting criminal record.

Contact a Long Island LIRR Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or someone you care about is facing LIRR-related charges in Nassau, Suffolk, or Queens, speak directly with a former prosecutor who understands how these cases work – and how to fight them.

The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC is a trusted resource for clients arrested by MTA police. We’ve successfully defended individuals charged with fare evasion, disorderly conduct, harassment, and other train-related offenses.

Don’t wait for things to spiral. The sooner you act, the better your outcome can be. Contact us now to protect your rights, your record, and your future.