What is the core characteristic of a crime labeled as "theft"?

The core characteristic of a crime labeled as "theft" is that it encompasses any act of stealing, regardless of the circumstances. Theft is defined legally as the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. This clear and broad definition indicates that theft can occur in various forms and settings, not limited by the context in which the stealing takes place.

The idea that theft applies universally to any act of stealing is fundamental because it reflects the intention behind the act and the unlawful nature of taking someone else's belongings without permission. This applies equally to personal property, commercial property, and any other type of ownership violation.

In contrast, other choices do not capture the essence of theft accurately. The involvement of legal authorization and legal processes are elements that pertain to the legality of actions, not the definition of theft itself. Focusing exclusively on theft from commercial properties is too narrow and overlooks personal theft and other forms that also constitute theft. Overall, understanding theft as any act of stealing clarifies its broad applicability in law.