Ashby, Santabarbara Announce Bipartisan Bill To Crack Down On Repeat Shoplifters

Sen. Jake Ashby (R,C-Castleton) and Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara (D-Rotterdam) are introducing bipartisan legislation to crack down on the serial shoplifters repeatedly targeting retailers across the state.

Their bill (S.7599/A.7882) would strengthen penalties against repeat offenders by allowing judges to upgrade petit larceny charges to fourth degree grand larceny after two convictions within three months, or three convictions within a year.

“There needs to be real consequences for repeat offenders who are threatening people’s livelihoods,” said Ashby. “There needs to be real deterrence. What’s happening now isn’t sustainable for family businesses, isn’t convenient for customers and simply is not right. People cannot steal with impunity and then get a slap on the wrist.”

"As lawmakers, it's our duty to protect the livelihoods of hardworking New Yorkers and foster a thriving business environment. This bipartisan bill sends a clear message to serial shoplifters —enough is enough,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara. “By strengthening penalties for repeat offenders, we aim to create a real deterrent and protect businesses from falling victim to these crimes repeatedly. This isn't about harshly punishing minor mistakes; it's about holding accountable those who show a blatant disregard for their neighbors and the well-being of our communities.”

“Downtown Troy stores are constantly tormented by shoplifters. Not only does it hurt the small businesses in our city, but it also leads to more petty crime that deters customers from wanting to return. I think this bill would help the growth of small businesses not only in Downtown Troy but throughout New York State,” said Downtown Troy Business Improvement District Executive Director Olivia Clemente.

The lawmakers noted that retail theft is becoming an increasingly sophisticated criminal enterprise. Lax penalties allow small numbers of criminals to offend over and over again. For example, in New York City, 327 perpetrators were convicted of 6,000 thefts in 2022.

“This is not about a draconian response against a teenager who makes one mistake. This is about stopping criminals who have no regard for their neighbors and are willfully eroding our quality of life. This is a $100 billion problem across the country, and it has family businesses in our own community on the brink of closing their doors,” said Ashby.

“We cannot stand idly by while a $100 billion issue threatens the fabric of our society and puts family businesses at risk of closure. It's time to take action and restore a sense of safety and security for our merchants and customers alike,” added Assemblyman Santabarbara.