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larceny

noun

/ˈlɑrsəni/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of larceny

The act of unlawfully taking someone else's personal property with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner of its possession.
"The suspect was charged with larceny after stealing a wallet from the store."

Detailed meaning of larceny

This crime differs from theft and robbery, as it typically does not involve the use of force or threats. Larceny can be categorized into two main types, petty and grand, depending on the value of the stolen property. Petty larceny involves the theft of items with a relatively low value, while grand larceny involves stealing items of higher value. Both types of larceny are punishable by law, with penalties varying based on the severity of the crime and the jurisdiction in which it occurs.

Example sentences containing larceny

1. Larceny is a theft crime involving the unlawful taking of property.
2. Petty larceny often involves stealing small items of minimal value.
3. The suspect was caught in the act of larceny at the store.
4. Grand larceny involves the theft of high-value items.
5. Shoplifting is a common form of larceny in retail environments.
6. Larceny cases require evidence to prove the accused's intent.

History and etymology of larceny

The noun 'larceny' has an etymology that reveals its association with theft and unlawful appropriation of property. It can be traced back to the Middle English word 'larcin,' which, in turn, finds its roots in Old French as 'larcin' and even further back to the Latin term 'latrocinium.' The Latin 'latrocinium' referred to robbery or pillaging. 'Larceny' signifies the act of unlawfully taking someone else's personal property with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner of its possession. Its etymology reflects the historical development of language and the enduring concept of theft and property crimes, emphasizing the illicit nature of such actions and their legal consequences.

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Further usage examples of larceny

1. The thief was arrested and charged with multiple counts of larceny.
2. Larceny can result in criminal charges and legal consequences.
3. The security camera captured the larceny on video.
4. Identity theft is a type of larceny involving personal information.
5. The stolen jewelry was recovered, leading to a larceny conviction.
6. Larceny investigations often involve surveillance and eyewitness accounts.
7. A larceny conviction can lead to fines, probation, or imprisonment.
8. The suspect faced allegations of larceny in a high-profile case.
9. Larceny rings often target high-end electronics and luxury items.
10. The prosecutor built a strong case against the accused in the larceny trial.
11. Larceny may involve breaking and entering to steal property.
12. The security system helped prevent larceny at the business.
13. The accused was sentenced to community service for his larceny conviction.
14. The victim's statement was crucial in identifying the suspect in the larceny.
15. Larceny is considered a crime against property rights.
16. The store implemented theft prevention measures to reduce larceny.
17. The suspect's criminal record showed previous larceny convictions.
18. Larceny is a serious offense that can affect employment prospects.
19. Larceny cases highlight the importance of security and vigilance.