Understanding Theft Charges in New York: A Comprehensive Guide Navigating the complexities of criminal law can be daunting, especially when facing charges as serious as theft. In New York, what many commonly refer to as "theft" is legally categorized under various forms of Larceny, and the consequences can range from misdemeanors to severe felonies, impacting every aspect of your life. This article aims to demystify New York's larceny laws, offering practical legal insights, warnings, and actionable steps for those accused or seeking to understand their rights. What Constitutes Larceny (Theft) in New York? At its core, larceny in New York is defined by Penal Law Article 155.05. It involves the wrongful taking, obtaining, or withholding of property from an owner with the intent to deprive another of property or to appropriate property to oneself or to a third person. This isn't just about physically taking something; it encompasses a wide range o...