Theft
It is the unauthorized appropriation of another’s moveable corporeal property with the goal to permanently deprive the owner of the item.
What are the five components of theft?
These are: appropriation, property, another’s property, dishonesty, and the desire to permanently deprive.
In South Africa, what is the penalty for theft?
The minimum obligatory term is 15 years in jail, with sentences increasing to 20 and 25 years for repeat offenders. As a result, repeat violators face increasingly severe penalties under the legislation.
How do you establish theft?
For a defendant to be found guilty of theft, each of the following factors must be established:
Appropriation;
In terms of property;
belonging to someone else;
Dishonesty;
With the purpose of permanently depriving.
In South Africa, how much is bail for theft?
Depending on the gravity of the offense, bail can be imposed in the hundreds of rand. The amount is normally established at the discretion of the magistrate.
Is it stealing if you return it?
Because purpose is present, a person can be prosecuted for stealing and later returning an object. The return has no bearing on the charges. The offender intentionally and permanently removed the object, and that is all the prosecution has to know to seek justice.
What happens after a theft is reported?
When a crime is reported, the police begin their investigation and look for proof. As the victim, they will need to speak with you and get as much information as possible in order to draft a statement.
