New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A03405

Introduced
1/27/25  
Refer
1/27/25  

Caption

Establishes the crime of package theft in the fourth, third, second and first degrees; designates such crimes as a class A misdemeanor, class E felony, class D felony, and class B felony, respectively; provides instances that are not a defense to such crimes; provides for certain defenses to such crimes.

Summary

Bill A03405 seeks to amend the penal law of New York by establishing the crime of package theft in four degrees, with corresponding penalties ranging from a class A misdemeanor for the least severe offense to a class B felony for the most severe. The bill defines package theft based on the value of the items stolen and the nature of the contents, particularly emphasizing the theft of packages containing prescribed medications or medical devices. The legislation aims to address the growing issue of package theft, particularly in the context of increasing online shopping and home deliveries.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will create new classifications of package theft under New York's penal law, thereby increasing the legal repercussions for individuals convicted of such crimes. It will also provide specific definitions and criteria for what constitutes package theft, particularly when it involves medical necessities, which could lead to stricter enforcement and prosecution of these offenses. This change may impact law enforcement practices and the judicial process regarding theft cases.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A03405 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a pressing issue of package theft that has become more prevalent with the rise of e-commerce. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential for overreach in criminalizing behavior that could be unintentional or misunderstood, particularly in cases involving medical items. Discussions in committee may reflect a balance between protecting consumers and ensuring fair treatment under the law.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the definitions of package theft and the defenses available to individuals accused of such crimes. Critics may argue that the bill does not adequately address situations where individuals mistakenly believe a package belongs to them or where ownership is disputed. Additionally, there may be concerns about the implications of classifying certain thefts as felonies, particularly for individuals with no prior offenses.

Companion Bills

NY S09435

Same As Establishes the crime of package theft in the fourth, third, second and first degrees; designates such crimes as a class A misdemeanor, class E felony, class D felony, and class B felony, respectively; provides instances that are not a defense to such crimes; provides for certain defenses to such crimes.

Previously Filed As

NY S09435

Establishes the crime of package theft in the fourth, third, second and first degrees; designates such crimes as a class A misdemeanor, class E felony, class D felony, and class B felony, respectively; provides instances that are not a defense to such crimes; provides for certain defenses to such crimes.

NY S07627

Establishes the crimes of spoofing a police agency telephone number in the first and second degrees as a class E felony and a class A misdemeanor.

NY A05170

Establishes the crime of sexual abuse against a patient or client by a health care provider in the first and second degree; designates such crimes as being class B and E felonies, respectively.

NY A01342

Establishes the crimes of spoofing a police agency telephone number in the first and second degrees as a class E felony and a class A misdemeanor.

NY A06005

Establishes the crimes of spoofing a police agency telephone number in the first and second degrees as a class E felony and a class A misdemeanor.

NY S00990

Classifies criminal possession of a firearm from a class E felony to a class D felony.

NY A03659

Classifies criminal possession of a firearm from a class E felony to a class D felony.

NY A01865

Establishes the crimes of sexual conduct with an animal resulting in injury or death and sexual conduct with an animal; makes such crimes a class E felony and class A misdemeanor, respectively.

NY A01630

Establishes the crimes of sexual conduct with an animal resulting in injury or death and sexual conduct with an animal; makes such crimes a class E felony and class A misdemeanor, respectively.

NY HB2104

Classification of felony offenses; designating classification for certain offenses; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.