Key Difference – Theft vs Extortion
Theft and extortion are two different types of criminal activities that involve taking someone’s property without their consent. Theft is a general term for all crimes in which an individual takes another person’s property without their consent, intending to permanently deprive them of it. In contrast, extortion is the practice of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats. The main difference between theft and extortion lies in the consent or permission of the rightful owner. Extortionists obtain the victim’s consent through fear or threats, while thieves do not have the consent at all.
What is a Theft?
Theft refers to a range of crimes where someone’s property is taken without their consent. Property in this context can include tangible, intangible, or intellectual property. Examples of theft include embezzlement, robbery, burglary, identity theft, swindling, and intellectual property theft. All these crimes share two key elements: taking the property from the rightful owner without their consent and intending to permanently deprive the owner of the property. Thefts may be classified as petty theft or grand theft, depending on the value of the stolen items. Although the terms theft and larceny are often used interchangeably, there are some technical differences between them.
What is an Extortion?
Extortion involves obtaining something, such as money or property, through force or threats. An extortionist might use threats against the victim, their family, or property to obtain money or property. These threats may involve physical harm or damage to the victim’s reputation or financial well-being. For example, a gang may threaten to harm a person’s family unless they pay a fee, or someone may threaten to publish compromising photos of someone unless they receive money. Both situations are considered extortion, even if physical harm is not involved.
What is the difference between Theft and Extortion?
While both theft and extortion involve taking someone’s property without their consent, there are key differences between the two:
– Definition: Theft is a general term for crimes involving taking someone’s property without their consent, while extortion involves obtaining something through force or threats.
– Consent: Thieves do not have the owner’s consent, while extortionists obtain consent through threats and intimidation.
– Force and Violence: Theft does not typically involve causing physical injury, while extortion may involve physically harming the victim.
– Forms of Crimes: Theft is a general term encompassing various offenses, such as swindling, embezzlement, identity theft, and burglary. In contrast, extortion may also include blackmail.
