Larceny
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Plain-English Meaning
Taking someone else's property without permission and intending to keep it. Larceny is the legal term for theft. The severity of the charge depends on the value of what was taken.
Legal Context
N.Y. Penal Law §§ 155.25–155.42 define petit larceny and grand larceny. Petit Larceny (§ 155.25, A misdemeanor) covers theft of property worth $1,000 or less. Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (§ 155.30, E felony) covers theft over $1,000, or any theft of certain items (credit cards, vehicles, firearms). Grand Larceny escalates to B felony for amounts over $1 million. Larceny includes shoplifting, pickpocketing, extortion, and embezzlement.
Real-Life Example
Shoplifting a $150 jacket is Petit Larceny (A misdemeanor). Stealing a car worth $15,000 is Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (E felony). Embezzling $2 million from an employer is Grand Larceny in the First Degree (B felony).
Related Statutes
Related Terms
Source
Based on N.Y. Penal Law §§ 155.25–155.42. Original B-Legal plain-language explanation.
N.Y. Penal Law §§ 155.25–155.42
Definitions are simplified for education. Legal meanings vary by jurisdiction, context, and case facts. This definition is original B-Legal content and is not affiliated with or derived from any proprietary legal dictionary.