Criminal Defense Attorney in the Bronx, NY

The Bronx has one of the highest crime rates among New York City’s boroughs, though recent years show some declines in violent offenses. In early 2025, murders dropped 29% and shootings fell 30% compared to 2024, but felony assaults rose slightly by 6%. Overall, the violent crime rate remains elevated at around 8 to 9 offenses per 1,000 residents historically. This is notably higher than the citywide average, with major crimes like robbery, burglary, and grand larceny occurring most frequently. At The Gallucci Law Firm, Mario Gallucci stays up to date on the latest trends throughout the Bronx and the surrounding areas, which helps him build personalized, strategic cases for clients facing an array of charges. 

Common charges in the Bronx include petit larceny (12-15% of arraignments), criminal possession of stolen property, drug offenses like criminal possession of a controlled substance (7%), assault, burglary, robbery, and weapons possession. Felonies often involve theft, homicide attempts, and sex offenses, while misdemeanors cover aggravated harassment and trespass. Mario Gallucci provides expert defense for all these relevant charges, from petit larceny and drug crimes to assault, burglary, robbery, and violent felonies in New York. His extensive experience in both state and federal courts makes him a dependable partner for your case. 

If you are arrested, the most important thing you can do is remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not speak to the police without a lawyer, as any statements you make can be used against you. Politely ask for an attorney and to contact a trusted friend or family member. You should also avoid consenting to a search of yourself or your belongings. The officer may choose to search you despite your objection, but making your decision clear can help preserve your rights later. Once released or at arraignment, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. A trusted attorney like Mario Gallucci will fight to protect your rights, challenge the evidence presented, and assess all facts and circumstances surrounding the charges. We offer free consultations in New York to review your case and start building your defense strategy as early as possible.

Being charged with a misdemeanor in the Bronx will give you a criminal record, but the penalties for these charges are generally less severe than felonies. 

• Class A misdemeanor – up to 364 days in jail and a $1,000 fine (or double the crime’s gain)
• Class B misdemeanor – up to 3 months in jail and a $500 fine
• Unclassified/non-criminal violations – up to 15 days in jail 

Felonies in New York are divided into five classes, ranging from A to E. Class A charges are the most severe, potentially resulting in sentences from 20 years to life in prison. Felony classes are further broken down into violent and nonviolent offenses, which can become confusing when navigating the details of your case. An experienced attorney like Mario Gallucci will stand by your side and ensure that you understand your charges and the best way to fight them. Even those charged with the most serious felonies in New York can trust Mario Gallucci to fight to reduce their sentence.

Project Reset is a pre-arraignment diversion program in the Bronx for low-level offenses like misdemeanor drug possession, theft, or marijuana charges. Eligible individuals opt into 2 to 4 hours of restorative justice circles with community volunteers instead of court. This program emphasizes accountability, healing, and resources to avoid future arrests. Launched in 2015 with the Bronx DA and partners, completion of the program results in the case being declined for prosecution and the arrest record sealed. No criminal record will be created for the original case. Participation is voluntary but encouraged, as the program has helped 10,000+ individuals arrested for low-level offenses in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island over the past 10 years.

If you experience police violence or misconduct in the Bronx, there are several steps you should take. First, seek immediate medical care if you have been injured by police. Be sure to document everything by making note of the officer’s details, contacting witnesses, and taking photographs of your injuries. Then, file a complaint of misconduct or brutality with the Bronx DA’s Civilian Complaint Unit at 718-590-2300 or via their English/Spanish forms. You can also contact the NYPD’s Internal Affairs department or the NYC CCPC (Commission to Combat Police Corruption). If you are the victim of unlawful police conduct, you should contact Mario Gallucci right away. He can pursue a Federal Civil Rights claim on your behalf, protecting your rights every step of the way.

When looking for a criminal defense attorney in the Bronx, you should find someone with proven experience in Bronx courts who has successfully handled the specific charge you are facing. You should also look for an attorney with a strong track record of dismissals or reductions and familiarity with local judges and DAs. Client testimonials and peer recognition are great resources as well. Personal attention matters; avoid high-volume firms and those who do not have free consultation availability. 

Mario Gallucci brings over 35 years of experience defending serious state and federal cases in NY and NJ, earning NY Times praise as a “stylish and tenacious defender.” He’s handled high-profile matters from DWI to homicide, sex crimes, and violent felonies with personalized strategies for optimal outcomes. He will take the time needed to get to know you, your charges, and the circumstances surrounding your case in order to craft a powerful defense strategy. When you work with The Gallucci Law Firm, you get more than just legal representation – you gain a trusted advocate with a track record of success and a reputation for fighting tirelessly for his clients’ rights. To request your free consultation, please contact us today.