Legal Definitions - pickpocketing

Pickpocketing refers to the act of stealing property directly from another person's body or clothing, typically without their immediate knowledge or consent. It is a specific type of theft where an individual unlawfully takes and carries away an item that is on or attached to the victim, with the intention of permanently depriving the owner of it.

Here are some examples to illustrate pickpocketing:

• Example 1: While riding a crowded bus, a passenger feels a slight nudge but thinks nothing of it. Later, they discover their wallet, which was in their back trouser pocket, is missing.

  Explanation: This illustrates pickpocketing because the wallet was taken directly from the victim's person (their clothing), without their immediate awareness or consent, and with the clear intent to steal it.

• Example 2: At a bustling outdoor market, a tourist is admiring some crafts. An individual standing close by subtly unzips the tourist's fanny pack, which is worn around their waist, and removes a small camera without the tourist noticing.

  Explanation: This is an instance of pickpocketing as the camera was stolen from an item of clothing directly on the victim's body, without their knowledge, and with the intention of permanent theft.

• Example 3: A person is sitting at a coffee shop with their laptop bag on the floor beside their chair. While they are engrossed in reading, someone walking past discreetly reaches into the open top of the bag and takes their smartphone.

  Explanation: This demonstrates pickpocketing because the smartphone was taken from an item (the laptop bag) that was in the victim's immediate control and possession, directly adjacent to their person, without their consent, and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.