Theft

Theft

A person commits theft when he dishonestly appropriates property belonging to another with the intention to permanently deprive the other of it under the Theft Ordinance (Cap. 210). Common examples include shoplifting and pick-pocketing. 

The offence carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment if convicted on indictment. Being convicted on indictment means that a defendant is found guilty in a higher court (not a Magistrates’ Court), usually this involves more serious cases. In minor cases or where the defendant is a first-time offender, the Court may consider a non-custodial sentence to be appropriate. However, immediate imprisonment is almost inevitable in cases involving breach of trust, e.g. where an employee steals what is entrusted to him by his employer.