New York Criminal Tampering Laws: An In-Depth Look

Criminal tampering involves interfering with someone else’s property without permission or legal right. New York has several laws prohibiting different types of criminal tampering, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. This article provides an in-depth look at New York’s criminal tampering laws, defenses, and potential sentences.

Overview of New York Criminal Tampering Laws

New York divides criminal tampering into three degrees based on the nature of the tampering and the type of property involved:

• Criminal Tampering in the Third Degree (NY Penal Law § 145.14) – a Class B misdemeanor involving tampering that causes “substantial inconvenience” to another person.
• Criminal Tampering in the Second Degree (NY Penal Law § 145.15) – a Class A misdemeanor involving tampering with property belonging to utilities, common carriers, or other public services.
• Criminal Tampering in the First Degree (NY Penal Law § 145.20) – a Class D felony involving tampering that causes substantial interruption or impairment of public services.

The main elements prosecutors must prove for any criminal tampering charge are:

• The defendant tampered with property belonging to someone else
• The defendant had no right or reasonable belief of having a right to tamper with the property
• The defendant intended to cause inconvenience or interruption of services through the tampering

The level of criminal tampering depends on the type of property, the resulting harm, and the defendant’s specific intent.

Criminal Tampering in the Third Degree

Criminal tampering in the third degree under NY Penal Law § 145.14 is the lowest level tampering offense in New York. It covers tampering that causes “substantial inconvenience” to another person.

The elements of criminal tampering in the third degree are:

• Tampering with property belonging to someone else
• Having no right or reasonable belief of having a right to tamper with the property
• Intent to cause substantial inconvenience to the owner or a third party

“Substantial inconvenience” means more than minor annoyance. Examples could include:

• Disabling someone’s vehicle so they cannot get to work or school
• Changing settings on someone’s computer to impair their business
• Damaging property used for someone’s livelihood or education

Criminal tampering in the third degree is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 months in jail and/or a fine up to $500. Defendants may also receive a conditional discharge or probation up to 1 year.

Criminal Tampering in the Second Degree

Criminal tampering in the second degree under NY Penal Law § 145.15 covers tampering with property belonging to public utilities, common carriers, or other providers of public services. This includes:

• Gas, electric, steam or water services
• Telephone or telegraph services
• Common carriers like airlines, railroads, etc.
• Nuclear power facilities
• Public utilities operated by municipalities

The elements of criminal tampering in the second degree are:

• Tampering with or making connection with property belonging to a public utility, common carrier, etc.
• Having no right or reasonable belief of having a right to tamper
• Intent to tamper – no need to prove intent for a specific purpose

It is an affirmative defense if the tampering was not done for an otherwise illegal or wrongful purpose.

Criminal tampering in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor. Potential sentences can include up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000. Probation between 2-3 years is also possible.

Criminal Tampering in the First Degree

The most serious offense is criminal tampering in the first degree under NY Penal Law § 145.20. This felony-level offense covers tampering that substantially interrupts or impairs public services.

The elements of criminal tampering in the first degree are:

• Tampering with property belonging to public utilities, common carriers, etc.
• Intent to cause substantial interruption or impairment of services
• No right or reasonable belief of having a right to tamper
• Causing substantial interruption or impairment

This offense requires proof the tampering succeeded in its purpose to interrupt or impair services. Examples include:

• Shutting down power to a neighborhood
• Disrupting cell phone service across a wide area
• Causing major disruptions to public transportation

Criminal tampering in the first degree is a Class D felony. Potential sentences can include:

• Indeterminate sentence of 1 to 2 1/3 years to 7 years in state prison
• Determinate sentence up to 1 year in jail
• Probation if mitigating factors apply

Fines up to $5,000 may also be imposed.

Defenses to New York Criminal Tampering Charges

Several legal defenses may apply in fighting New York criminal tampering charges:

Consent – It is a defense if the defendant had the property owner’s consent or reasonably believed they had consent. Consent should be documented if possible.

No unlawful purpose – For second degree tampering, it is an affirmative defense if there was no intent for an unlawful or wrongful purpose.

Lack of substantial inconvenience/interruption – The level of inconvenience or interruption caused must meet the statutory definitions. Minor disruptions do not qualify.

Misidentification – Mistaken identity is a defense if the defendant did not actually commit the tampering.

Duress – Doing the tampering under threat of harm may provide a duress defense.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence and determine if any defenses apply to your case.

Sentencing and Penalties

Sentencing for New York criminal tampering depends on the degree and the defendant’s criminal history:

• Third degree – Up to 3 months in jail and/or fine up to $500
• Second degree – Up to 1 year in jail and/or fine up to $1,000
• First degree – 1 to 7 years in state prison

Probation or conditional discharge are also possible for misdemeanor tampering.

Additional penalties may include:

• Restitution to the property owner
• Community service
• Loss of licenses or certifications
• Probation supervision

Immigration consequences may also apply for non-citizens convicted of criminal tampering.

Finding an Attorney for Criminal Tampering Charges

Criminal tampering allegations can have lasting effects on your life and career. An experienced New York criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights at every stage. They will conduct a thorough investigation of your case and build the strongest defenses.

Do not wait to get legal help if you are under investigation or charged with any degree of criminal tampering. A skilled attorney can negotiate with prosecutors or take your case to trial. The best outcome depends on timely, strategic representation.

Conclusion

New York has three degrees of criminal tampering offenses covering different types of interference with property. Charges range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the circumstances. Defending against allegations of criminal tampering requires a detailed understanding of New York law. With an assertive legal advocate on your side, you can avoid harsh penalties and move forward with your life.