What is required for a charge of aggravated theft?

The requirement for a charge of aggravated theft centers on the element of intent. To establish aggravated theft, it is essential to demonstrate that the person acted with the intention of depriving the owner of their property. This means that the individual must have had a clear intention to permanently or substantially interfere with the owner's right to the property.

The concept of "intention to borrow" or having consent but exceeding use does not meet the threshold of aggravated theft because these scenarios imply a lack of intent to permanently deny ownership. Furthermore, the inclusion of any theft involving a vehicle as a criterion for aggravated theft lacks the necessary specificity regarding the intent and act of deprivation that characterize this crime. Therefore, the focus on the deliberate intention to deprive the owner is what correctly defines aggravated theft in this context.