Bill > A00397

This bill increases the severity of penalties for larceny and criminal possession of stolen property offenses committed against individuals who are 60 years of age or older. Specifically, if an offender commits a misdemeanor larceny or criminal possession of stolen property offense against an elderly person, the offense will be elevated to a class E felony. For felony offenses against elderly victims, the offense will be raised one category higher than the original offense. These enhanced penalties only apply under two conditions: first, the offender must have known or learned the victim's age during the commission of the crime, and second, the offender must have a prior conviction for a similar offense involving an elderly victim. The purpose of this legislation appears to be providing additional legal protection for elderly individuals who are often considered more vulnerable to criminal exploitation, by creating more significant legal consequences for those who target seniors in theft-related crimes. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A397