Petty crimes

choose   Sun Dec 07, 2008 3:21 am GMT
"where he'd been arrested for petty larceny."

I am not quite sure I understand how the adjective 'petty,' could be used to describe 'crimes,' unless there is something dictionaries are keeping from me.

Also, is there a difference between larceny and stealing?
Blanche   Sun Dec 07, 2008 5:48 am GMT
petty larceny - n. a term used in many states for theft of a small amount of money or objects of little value (such as less than $500). It is distinguished from grand larceny which is theft of property of greater worth, which is a felony punishable by a term in state prison. Petty larceny is a misdemeanor punishable at maximum with a term in the county jail. States which only use the term "larceny," often treat theft of a smaller amounts as a misdemeanor in sentencing.

<<Also, is there a difference between larceny and stealing?>>

Not really. However, 'larceny' is the term used in jurisprudence.
Another Guest   Mon Dec 08, 2008 3:05 am GMT
Larceny refers specifically to nonviolent theft.
Roger   Fri Dec 19, 2008 8:58 am GMT
Well explained.