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Theft in English law - Definition and Overview |
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In English law, theft is a criminal offence, which covers almost all forms of taking. It is a statutory offence contrary to Section 1 of the Theft Act 1968.
Elements of theft
Theft consists of the following elements: (1) there must be property, which (2) belongs to another; and (3) is appropriated. The appropriation must be (4) dishonest; and (5) done with the intention of permanently depriving the other of it. Items (1)-(3) would normally be classed as forming part of the actus reus and (4)-(5) of the mens rea.
The most surprising aspect of this definition to the non-lawyer is that there needs to be an intention to permanently deprive someone of the property. This means that, in general terms, "borrowing" is not stealing.
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Example Usage of English |
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biggirljewelry: RT @Mendozam: Mason's Brown Vista Prunus Jar - English Ironstone - For sale http://tinyurl.com/yl3dsmg at Bonanzle. |
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rtp_acores: News in English: 14 Dec 09 - Culture: Nicolau Breyner chooses Azores as backdrop to next film: .. http://bit.ly/6ZeKov |
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Derek_Haines: @WitchTourniquet So did I. That to me is the point. English for communication. |
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