How is "theft" defined in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, "theft" is defined as taking someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. This definition encompasses any act where an individual intentionally removes or appropriates property that belongs to another person, signifying a clear intention to take it away from the rightful owner. The core elements of theft are the taking (or appropriation) of property and the intent to deprive the owner of it, which is crucial for establishing the crime.

This definition aligns with the legal framework established in Pennsylvania's criminal statutes, which emphasize both the action of taking and the mental state of the accused. By focusing on the intent to permanently deprive, Pennsylvania law seeks to address the seriousness of the offense, as it recognizes the violation of property rights and the impact on the victim.

Other definitions related to property crimes—such as trespassing, possession of stolen property, or falsely claiming ownership—do not capture the essence of theft as occurring through the act of taking with the intent to deprive the owner. These other options highlight different aspects of property rights and criminal behavior but do not fully encompass the legal definition of theft as detailed in Pennsylvania's statutes.