False imprisonment occurs when someone holds another person against that person's will. Learn about this criminal offense here.Unlawful Imprisonment in the First Degree is a New York criminal offense imposing harsh penalties on anyone who restrains another person. In New York, a private person or a police officer commits the tort of false imprisonment or false arrest when they detain someone without legal authority. The (specify) count is Unlawful Imprisonment in the Second. Degree. A person is guilty of unlawful imprisonment in the second degree when he restrains another person. A person is guilty of unlawful imprisonment in the second degree when he restrains another person. If you have been arrested without probable cause, you are entitled to compensation for any damages suffered from a false arrest under Federal and State Laws. Penal Law 175.35 is a class "E" felony. The plaintiff in a false imprisonment action must prove that the defendant proximately caused the injuries for which the plaintiff seeks damages.