Syracuse Theft Crimes Lawyer

Were you arrested for a theft crime in Syracuse, NY? Call Passalacqua & Associates, LLC for a consultation at (315) 500-6425. If you are facing theft charges, our Syracuse theft crimes lawyers are prepared to help you build a strong defense and effectively respond to your charges.

Our top-rated criminal defense law firm has over 50 years of combined experience defending clients against criminal charges throughout Central New York. We understand that good people make mistakes and are sometimes accused of crimes they didn’t commit. Whatever your situation, contact our legal team who will work hard to protect your rights from start to finish.

Why Choose Passalacqua & Associates to Defend You Against Theft Charges in Syracuse, New York?

Passalacqua & Associates is a premier law firm in Syracuse, New York. Our Syracuse criminal defense attorneys are seasoned trial lawyers who have successfully handled numerous cases across New York courts.

A few reasons to consider hiring us for your case include: 

• Members of our legal team belong to the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
• We have over 240 five-star reviews on Google. 
• We have a thorough understanding of criminal law and are known for providing personalized representation to clients.

If you’re ready to get started or have any questions, reach out to our Syracuse theft crimes attorneys today to arrange a consultation. 

An Overview of Theft Under New York Law

In New York, “theft” is legally referred to as larceny under New York Penal Law § 155.05. Larceny occurs when a person “wrongfully takes, obtains, or withholds” someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of it.

This broad definition covers many types of conduct. Common examples include:

• Shoplifting: taking merchandise from a store without paying
• Embezzlement: misappropriating money or property entrusted to you
• Auto theft: taking or possessing a stolen vehicle
• Credit card theft: stealing and using another person’s credit card
• Theft by deception: obtaining property by making false promises

While all of these offenses fall under the category of “theft crimes,” the specific penalties you face will depend on the value of the property involved and other factors.

What Are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in New York?

New York divides theft crimes into misdemeanors and felonies based on the value and nature of the property taken:

• Petit larceny (Class A Misdemeanor): involves property generally valued at less than $1,000 and is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000
• Grand larceny in the fourth degree (Class E Felony): involves property valued at between $1,000 and $3,000 or certain types of property like credit cards, and is punishable by up to 4 years in prison
• Grand larceny in the third degree (Class D Felony): involves property valued between $3,000 and $50,000 and is punishable by up to 7 years in prison
• Grand larceny in the second degree (Class C Felony): involves property valued between $50,000 and $1 million (or the property is obtained by extortion as defined in the statute, regardless of value) and is punishable by up to 15 years in prison
• Grand larceny in the first degree (Class B Felony): involves property valued at over $1 million and is punishable by up to 25 years in prison

A theft conviction for any of these crimes can have significant consequences, including a criminal record that can potentially follow you for life.

Collateral Consequences of a Theft Conviction

Theft crimes often carry severe collateral consequences that can affect your personal and professional life for years to come.

If convicted, you may face:

• Difficulty finding housing and employment
• Loss of educational and financial aid opportunities
• Ineligibility for certain professional certifications and security clearances
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Social stigma and damage to your reputation
• Loss of the right to possess firearms
• Loss of voting rights or the ability to serve on a jury (depending on the charge)
• Disciplinary action or denial by professional licensing boards
• Negative impacts on child custody and family law matters
• Harsher penalties for future charges due to a prior theft conviction
• Ongoing background check issues even after completing probation

Felony charges often lead to consequences, such as these.

However, with a qualified theft crimes attorney on your side, you can avoid many of these lasting effects.

Related Theft and Property Offenses

Not every property-related offense involves direct theft, but many carry similar penalties and social stigma. Our theft crimes lawyers in Syracuse can defend clients accused of:

• Burglary: illegally entering a building with the intent to commit a crime inside
• Robbery: taking property through the use or threat of force
• Identity theft: using someone else’s personal information without consent
• Forgery: falsifying documents for financial gain
• Insurance fraud: submitting false claims or misrepresentations for payment

Each of these crimes has distinct elements and potential punishments under New York law. Some are considered violent felonies, which carry mandatory minimum prison sentences as well.

What Defenses Can Be Raised Against Theft Charges in Syracuse, NY?

You’re presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, and the prosecution must present evidence in order to convict you. Depending on the facts of your case, our lawyers may be able to utilize one more strategy on your behalf.

Common defenses to theft crimes in Syracuse include:

• Lack of intent: You did not intend to permanently deprive the owner of their property.
• Ownership claim: You believed the property belonged to you.
• Consent: The alleged victim permitted you to take or use the property.
• Mistaken identity: You were wrongly identified as the person who committed the theft.
• Insufficient evidence: The prosecution cannot prove your guilt with reliable evidence.
• Violation of rights: Law enforcement conducted an unlawful search and/or interrogation.

Even if one of these defenses applies, the specific facts and how the evidence was gathered are crucial. A lawyer can review police reports, body cam footage, surveillance video, witness statements, and any written or recorded statements attributed to you to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help With a Theft Case in Syracuse?

Your attorney will understand how to navigate the complex criminal justice system and protect your rights from the moment charges are filed. 

They can:

• Investigate your case internally
• Challenge the prosecution’s evidence and gather any exculpatory evidence
• File motions and other legal actions as beneficial
• Explore any diversion and reduction options that may be available
• Advocate for you in every court appearance, including at trial
• Protect your future by looking into appeal and record sealing options, if possible

If you’ve been accused of theft, you might be unsure what to do next. You may think the evidence against you is too strong, for instance, or that the charges are too minor to need an attorney. However, the reality is that working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer can make a crucial difference in how your case ultimately unfolds.

Contact Our Syracuse Theft Crimes Attorneys to Schedule an Initial Consultation

Facing theft charges in Syracuse is a serious matter. A conviction could mean years behind bars and a permanent criminal record that follows you wherever you go. However, with the right legal team in your corner, you can protect your rights and work toward the best possible result–whether that be dropped charges or less time in jail.

At Passalacqua & Associates, our defense lawyers bring over 50 years of combined experience to every case we take on. We know how theft cases are built and how to dismantle them. Regardless of the exact charges you’re facing, we’ll treat your case with the attention and urgency it deserves.

Contact our Syracuse theft crimes attorneys today to schedule an initial consultation. We’re ready to stand by your side and fight to secure your future.