Official Text
“Whoever, intending to take dishonestly any moveable property out of the possession of any person without that person's consent, moves that property in order to such taking, is said to commit theft.”
Legal Analysis
Elements to Prove:
- Intention to take dishonestly.
- Moveable property.
- Without consent of the owner.
- Moving the property.
Potential Defenses:
- Honest belief of ownership.
- Acting with consent.
- Property was abandoned.
Practical Examples
What Constitutes the Offense:
Stealing money, taking someone's phone, shoplifting, vehicle theft.
What Doesn't Constitute:
Borrowing with permission, taking abandoned property, or acting in good faith.
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 3 years, or Fine, or both