Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

Pettite Larceny

I was arrested and for petite larceny at a JcPenney store in NY. I stole two items that equaled roughly $30.00. I received community service from the judge. But now JcPenny's is asking for almost $800.00 dollars from me so that they won't press a civil claim against me - this is my second notice from them the first was of a sum of $500. They uped the price and are extorting me. If i do not pay it they will sue me. Is this legal what should I do?


Asked on 1/12/08, 2:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Joel Salinger Law Office of Joel R. Salinger

Re: Pettite Larceny

Under the General Obligations Law of the State of New York a store can demand a civil penalty over the cost of the item after a charge of larceny. You can either fight this or pay it but in the end you are going to be liable for the money. It is new (only a few years old) but it is legal under the law.

Joel R. Salinger, Esq.

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Answered on 1/13/08, 11:50 am


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