JUVENILE CHARGED WITH FELONY AFTER INCIDENT AT SANGERTOWN MALL

New Hartford, N.Y. — December 6, 2025

New Hartford Police say a 15-year-old male has been charged with a felony following an incident at Target inside Sangertown Square Mall on Saturday. Officers assigned to the mall detail responded after store personnel reported the teen was caught stealing merchandise.

According to police, further investigation revealed that the juvenile had previously been arrested at the same Target earlier this year for petit larceny. Because of the prior incident, the teen now faces upgraded charges, including:

• NYS PL 140.20 – Burglary in the Third Degree (Felony)

• NYS PL 155.25 – Petit Larceny (Misdemeanor)

The juvenile—whose name is not being released due to age—was taken to the New Hartford Police Department for processing. He was issued an appearance ticket to answer the charges at the Oneida County Probation Department and released to a parent.

Police also stated they plan to continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine whether the parent may bear any criminal responsibility. If warranted, additional charges could be filed.

Authorities remind the public that Sangertown Square Mall enforces a strict youth supervision policy. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian age 21 or older during all operational hours. Guests should be prepared to show valid photo identification upon request. Failure to comply with mall policy may result in removal from the premises.

The investigation remains ongoing.