Theft is the unauthorised taking of property belonging to another person or a company, with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. It is typically considered a felony, although some jurisdictions distinguish it from burglary and other crimes based on the value of stolen items or whether they are certain kinds of property such as vehicles, legal documents, firearms, explosives, livestock animals, fish that exceed $75 in value, or chemicals including anhydrous ammonia.
Things often go from “misplaced” to “tragically lost” when some extra event carries them even further away from you. So if an item you need urgently goes from “Missing” to “Tragically Lost”, it’s worth doing some extra checking (and assuming the item isn’t too valuable, it might be worth a quick reward). Look under and around larger objects, such as pillows or couches, or empty the contents of dresser drawers, waste bins, boxes, laundry bags, and other containers that can collect a bundle of items.
When it comes to stealing, many people act on impulse, especially in crowds or when they are distracted (such as by socializing or using the bathroom). Don’t set valuable articles like wallets and cell phones on restaurant tables, train seats, or elsewhere where they can easily be swiped by others. In addition, never leave valuables in a car unattended. Car thieves are notorious for targeting gift-wrapped vehicles that may contain expensive electronics, a laptop or other electronic device, cash, or other valuables.