My question involves criminal law for the state of: New York
I am being charged with a Class E Felony, Grand Larceny 4th. There is extensive video evidence of me committing the crime in question and I have already signed a full confession. I was as cooperative as possible and did not request a lawyer because I did not realize the extent of the case.
What happened, I am a resident on a college campus. I found another students ID card and used it in a vending machine to purchase about $12 worth of items on their meal plan points. Apparently these ID cards count as credit cards, making this a Class E felony. After this I disposed of the card in a nearby trashcan. I wasn't worried too much, I figured academic probation or something similar, because I had heard of dozens of instances of other students doing this, and it was a university police officer that questioned me, then they throw "Grand Larceny" in my face.
Anyone have any idea what my punishment will likely be? Should I bother with a lawyer, or am I in too deep? I've heard that cases like this can often be dropped to a misdemeanor. What do you think the odds are of this happening? Also, I have no previous criminal record with the exception of a minor speeding ticket.
Thank you for your time.

