Is Shoplifting Decriminalized in New York?

Shoplifting remains a criminal offense under New York state law, prosecuted as larceny.

Theft of property valued at $1,000 or less is classified as
petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to one
year in jail and a fine of $1,000. If the stolen property exceeds $1,000
in value, the crime is charged as grand larceny, a felony that carries
multi-year prison sentences and fines ranging from $5,000 to $30,000,
depending on the value and circumstances.

The 2019 bail reform law eliminated cash bail for most
misdemeanors and non-violent felonies, meaning most accused shoplifters
receive desk appearance tickets instead of pretrial detention.

The crime remains fully prosecutable and convictions can
lead to substantial penalties. Judges have discretion; first-time
offenders might receive community service, but penalties may be severe,
particularly in cases of organized retail theft, which now face stronger
enforcement and harsher sentences.