stealing

Stealing is the act of taking someone else’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. In everyday language, stealing refers to taking property that does not belong to the actor, but many legal systems classify the act as theft, larceny, or a similar offense.

Stealing differs from borrowing or lending, where the taker intends to return the item. It also commonly involves elements such as lack of consent and the intent to permanently deprive. Other acts that involve taking property, such as robbery (taking by force or threat) or burglary (breaking in to commit a theft), are treated as separate offenses. Some jurisdictions include embezzlement, fraud, or receiving stolen property under theft statutes.

Most legal definitions require several elements: an act of taking or appropriation; property belonging to another; lack of consent; and the intent to deprive permanently. Some places distinguish between property that is tangible versus intangible, and between possession, custody, or ownership. Defenses may include lack of intent, consent, mistaken ownership, or illegality of the taking under certain circumstances.

Penalties vary by jurisdiction and by the value and type of property. Sanctions can include fines, probation, or imprisonment, with more serious cases carrying longer sentences or enhanced penalties for factors such as age, repeat offenses, or violence. Societal responses often combine deterrence, restitution to victims, and, in some systems, restorative justice programs.