What is a common element of theft that generally composes any form of this crime?

The correct answer highlights that a key element of theft is the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. This principle is fundamental because theft involves not just the act of taking someone else's belongings, but the underlying intention that the property will not be returned to the rightful owner. This intent distinguishes theft from other actions that may involve taking property but do not carry the desire for permanent loss.

Understanding this intent is crucial in law, as it underlines the wrongful nature of the act; the perpetrator consciously decides to deny the owner the use and benefit of their property in a manner that is unlawful and unethical. The concept of intent is central to establishing a crime like theft, as it helps clarify the mindset of the individual committing the act, reinforcing the idea that theft is not merely an accident but a deliberate act of dishonesty.

The other options relate to factors that do not constitute necessary elements of theft. For instance, the presence of witnesses can play a role in prosecution but is not intrinsic to the definition of theft itself. Similarly, consent from the owner would negate theft, and the intent to return property suggests a lack of the necessary mindset for theft, as it implies no desire to permanently deprive the owner of their belongings.