Theft crimes in Nassau County include larceny, shoplifting, burglary, robbery, and criminal possession of stolen property. Regardless of the charge, a conviction can result in jail time, a criminal record, immigration consequences, and lasting damage to your career and reputation.
The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC represents individuals charged with theft offenses throughout Nassau County and Long Island. Attorney Ramy Mikhail Louis is a former Nassau County prosecutor who understands how theft cases are investigated, charged, and prosecuted. Our Nassau County criminal defense attorneys use that experience to challenge the evidence and pursue the strongest possible outcome in every case.
Types of Theft Crimes We Defend
Larceny involves unlawfully taking another person’s property. Charges range from petit larceny to grand larceny depending on the value of the property and circumstances of the offense.
Many theft arrests arise from alleged shoplifting incidents in retail stores. Even first-time offenders can face criminal charges and a permanent record.
Burglary involves unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit a crime. The offense can be charged as a felony even when no property is ultimately taken.
Robbery involves the use or threat of force while taking property from another person. These charges carry some of the most serious penalties under New York law.
A person can face criminal charges for possessing property they allegedly knew was stolen, even if they did not personally take the property.
Is Theft the Same as Larceny in New York?
In New York, theft is generally prosecuted as larceny. Larceny is the legal term used when someone is accused of unlawfully taking property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
However, theft-related charges can involve different allegations, including shoplifting, grand larceny, burglary, robbery, and possession of stolen property.
Consequences of a Theft Conviction
A theft conviction can affect far more than the immediate criminal case. Many theft-related charges, including shoplifting and petit larceny, are prosecuted as misdemeanors.
Depending on the charge, potential consequences may include:
- Jail or prison
- Probation
- Criminal fines
- Restitution
- Immigration consequences
- Professional licensing issues
- Employment difficulties
- Permanent criminal record
Why Early Representation Matters
Many theft cases rely on surveillance video, witness statements, inventory records, valuation evidence, and police investigations. Early intervention often creates opportunities to challenge evidence, negotiate favorable resolutions, or seek alternatives that avoid a permanent criminal conviction.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in New York
The classification of a theft offense depends on the specific charge, the value of property involved, and the circumstances alleged.
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Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail, probation, and fines
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Class E Felony: Up to 4 years in prison, probation, and fines
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Class D Felony: Up to 7 years in prison, probation, and fines
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Class C Felony: Up to 15 years in prison, probation, and fines
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Class B Felony: Up to 25 years in prison, probation, and fines
Judges have discretion in sentencing and may consider criminal history, mitigating factors, and restitution to victims.
Why You Need an Experienced Nassau County Theft Crimes Lawyer
Theft charges can have long-term effects on your freedom, finances, career, and immigration status. Working with a skilled Nassau County criminal defense attorney early can help reduce or dismiss charges and protect your future.
Our attorneys at The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, have extensive experience defending clients against theft crimes in Nassau County courts. We know how cases are investigated, negotiated, and prosecuted—and we fight to achieve the best possible outcome for every client.
Contact our firm today for a free consultation.