Punitive damages are permitted when the defendant's wrongdoing is not simply intentional but evinces a high degree of moral turpitude and demonstrates such wanton dishonesty as to imply a criminal indifference to civil obligations. The misconduct must be exceptional, as when the wrongdoer has acted maliciously, wantonly, or with a recklessness that betokens an improper motive or vindictiveness, or has engaged in outrageous or oppressive intentional misconduct or with reckless or wanton disregard of safety or rights. Here, the plaintiff's conclusory allegations that the defendants' conduct was wanton, reckless, and affected the public were insufficient to sustain the demand for punitive damages.
CK Real Estate, LLC v. 2018 Li Lin Realty, LLC, NY Slip Op 04173 (2d Dep't July 1, 2026)
