What is considered a misdemeanor in New York?

In New York, a misdemeanor is defined as a less serious crime than a felony, typically punishable by up to one year in prison or less severe penalties. Shoplifting, which involves the unlawful taking of merchandise from a store with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of its possession, falls under this category.

Shoplifting can be charged as a misdemeanor, generally classified as petty larceny if the value of the stolen items is below a certain threshold. This classification is distinct from other crimes mentioned in the options.

Murder and robbery are more serious offenses typically classified as felonies, which involve harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences. Assault in the first degree is also classified as a felony in New York because it involves causing serious physical injury to another person, demonstrating the increased severity of the offense. Thus, the correct classification of shoplifting as a misdemeanor aligns with New York's legal definitions and penalty structures, emphasizing its comparative lesser severity relative to the other crimes listed.