Which of the following is NOT an element of theft?

In the context of theft, the key elements typically include the intentional taking of property, the knowledge that one is not entitled to that property, and the action of keeping or selling it. Therefore, intending to return the property is not consistent with the concept of theft. Theft implies that the individual has the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property, which is fundamentally at odds with the idea of returning the property afterward.

When someone takes property with the intention of returning it, this does not align with the definition of theft, as the intent behind the act is not to deprive the owner but rather to borrow or temporarily possess the property. The other elements focus on the wrongful intent and action of permanently or unlawfully taking someone else’s property, which are essential components of a theft charge.