How is "theft" defined under criminal law?

The definition of "theft" under criminal law is centered on the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intention of permanently depriving the owner of it. This concept is encapsulated in the notion that theft involves both the act of taking and the intent behind that act.

When someone unlawfully takes another's property, it signifies that they do not have permission from the owner to do so. The critical aspect that distinguishes theft from other forms of property crime is the intent—specifically, the intent to keep the property and not return it to the rightful owner. This permanence of intent is what qualifies the action as theft rather than, for example, borrowing or leasing, which would involve the expectation of returning the property.

The other options contribute to misunderstandings about theft. Taking property for temporary use may resemble borrowing, which lacks the requisite intent for permanent deprivation. A misunderstanding about ownership relates more to disputes rather than criminal acts of theft. Lastly, using force to take property describes robbery, a different offense that involves intimidation or violence, rather than the non-violent taking implied in theft.