National Investigators Exam (NIE) Practice Exam

Which of the following actions constitutes an offence under the Theft Act regarding stolen goods?

1. Only selling the goods

2. Assisting in the disposal of goods

3. Just receiving stolen goods

4. Ignoring possession of stolen goods

The correct answer is: Assisting in the disposal of goods

The action of assisting in the disposal of goods constitutes an offense under the Theft Act because it implies involvement in the furtherance of criminal activity related to stolen property. The act of assisting suggests a degree of awareness and intent to help in the illegal activities surrounding the stolen goods, which is clearly defined as an offense. This participation can include actions such as helping to sell, transport, or conceal stolen items, all of which contribute to the ongoing crime of theft. By contrast, merely receiving stolen goods does also constitute an offense, as it indicates acceptance of the property knowing it to be stolen, but it's different from the proactive involvement implied in assisting disposal. The other options, such as selling goods or ignoring possession, do not reflect the same level of engagement with the illegal nature of the goods. Ignoring possession of stolen goods, for example, lacks active participation in the crime, which does not align with the specific actions that the Theft Act targets. Therefore, assisting in the disposal is a clear and direct violation of the law regarding stolen goods.