Legal Definitions - abigeus

An abigeus is a term originating from ancient Roman and civil law. It refers to an individual who commits the theft of livestock, particularly when a significant number of animals are stolen. Essentially, an abigeus is a cattle-rustler or someone involved in the unlawful taking of farm animals such as cattle, sheep, or horses.

• Example 1: Large-Scale Ranch Theft
  Imagine a vast ranch in a historical setting where a cattle baron discovers that a large portion of his prize beef cattle, numbering in the hundreds, has been systematically rounded up and driven away from his remote pastures overnight. An investigation points to a notorious group of thieves known for orchestrating such large-scale operations across the region, intending to sell the stolen animals in distant markets. The leader and members of this group would be considered abigei under the prevailing legal system.

  Explanation: This scenario illustrates an abigeus because it involves the theft of a substantial number of livestock (hundreds of beef cattle) by individuals acting as organized cattle-rustlers, directly aligning with the historical legal definition.

• Example 2: Theft of Valuable Breeding Stock
  Consider a specialized farmer who breeds rare and valuable horses for racing. One morning, he discovers that three of his most prized mares, each worth a considerable sum, have been stolen from their secure stables. The individual responsible for breaking into the stables and absconding with these specific animals, even if not an entire herd, would be classified as an abigeus due to the unlawful taking of valuable livestock.

  Explanation: This example demonstrates an abigeus through the theft of multiple valuable livestock animals (breeding horses), highlighting that the term applies to the unlawful taking of farm animals, regardless of whether it constitutes an entire herd, as long as it is a significant theft of livestock.

• Example 3: Theft of Working Animals
  In a rural community governed by civil law principles, a small family farm relies heavily on its team of four sturdy draft mules for plowing fields and transporting goods. One night, these essential working animals are stolen from their barn, severely impacting the family's ability to cultivate their land and earn a living. The person who carried out this theft, intending to sell the mules for labor or meat, would be identified as an abigeus.

  Explanation: This scenario fits the definition of an abigeus because it involves the theft of multiple working livestock (draft mules) that are integral to agricultural production, showcasing the application of the term to various types of farm animals stolen for different purposes.