What term describes the act of stealing or removing property from its rightful owner?

The term that describes the act of stealing or removing property from its rightful owner is "theft." Theft is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. This broad definition encompasses various forms of stealing, regardless of the method used or the circumstances surrounding the act.

Burglary, while related, specifically refers to entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime, often theft, but not exclusively. Robbery differs in that it involves taking property from a person through force or intimidation. Vandalism, on the other hand, refers to the intentional destruction or defacement of someone else's property.

Understanding these definitions is essential for discerning the nuances between these terms in a legal context, especially within personal lines insurance and law enforcement.