New York State Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is the definition of petit larceny?

1. Unlawfully taking property valued at less than $1,000

2. A civil wrong resulting in injury to another

3. The act of stealing a vehicle

4. Taking property from someone's home

The correct answer is: Unlawfully taking property valued at less than $1,000

The definition of petit larceny is accurately represented by the statement about unlawfully taking property valued at less than $1,000. In legal terms, petit larceny, also known as petty theft, refers to a category of theft that is classified as a misdemeanor, distinguishing it from grand larceny, which involves property of a higher value. The threshold of $1,000 is significant in New York law, as it establishes the dividing line between minor and more serious theft offenses. This classification helps law enforcement and the judicial system impose appropriate penalties and maintain order by differentiating between varying degrees of theft. Understanding this definition is crucial for anyone preparing for a role as a private investigator in New York State because it informs how various theft-related incidents should be approached in terms of investigation and legal implications. The other options do not align with the definition of petit larceny. For instance, a civil wrong resulting in injury pertains to tort law, stealing a vehicle refers specifically to auto theft or grand larceny depending on its value, and taking property from someone's home would likely involve burglary or trespass rather than petit larceny. Thus, the definition provided in the correct answer captures the essence of this legal term accurately.