Which statement about theft elements is correct?

• A. Theft does not require dishonesty.
• B. Dishonesty is one of the points to prove theft.
• C. Fear is required.
• D. Property must be damaged.

Answer: (B)

Dishonesty is a key element in proving theft. To convict, the state must show that someone took property belonging to another, without consent, with the intention to permanently deprive the owner, and that the taking was dishonest. Dishonesty helps distinguish theft from merely borrowing or accidental taking, and various tests exist to assess whether the conduct was dishonest. Fear or threats are not required for theft, and property damage is not necessary—the theft can involve taking intact property. So, the correct statement is that dishonesty is one of the elements to prove theft.