People v. Avery

Opinion

CHIN, J.

Under California law, theft requires an intent to permanently deprive another of property. (See People v. Ortega (1998) 19 Cal.4th 686, 693 [80 Cal.Rptr.2d 489, 968 P.2d 48].) We granted review to determine whether this requirement is satisfied by the intent to take the property only temporarily, but for so extended a period of time as to deprive the owner of a major portion of its value or enjoyment. We conclude such an intent is sufficient.

I. Procedural History

A court convicted defendant of arson and found true that he had suffered a prior serious felony conviction,…