If an instrument lacks a serial number, you may be liable for which crime?

If an instrument lacks a serial number, you may be liable for which crime?

• A. Fraud
• B. Trespass
• C. Receiving stolen property
• D. Arson

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that missing a serial number on property can be a clue that the item is stolen, which supports liability for receiving stolen property. Receiving stolen property requires that the person knew or should have known the item was stolen and that they received or possessed it. When an object lacks a serial number, it is easier to argue that it originated from theft or is untraceable, helping to establish that the property was stolen and that the possessor knew or should have known this. Fraud, trespass, and arson involve different elements—fraud centers on deceit for financial gain, trespass on unlawful entry or interference with property, and arson on burning property—none of which hinge on the absence of a serial number, so they fit less well.

The main idea is that missing a serial number on property can be a clue that the item is stolen, which supports liability for receiving stolen property. Receiving stolen property requires that the person knew or should have known the item was stolen and that they received or possessed it. When an object lacks a serial number, it is easier to argue that it originated from theft or is untraceable, helping to establish that the property was stolen and that the possessor knew or should have known this.

Fraud, trespass, and arson involve different elements—fraud centers on deceit for financial gain, trespass on unlawful entry or interference with property, and arson on burning property—none of which hinge on the absence of a serial number, so they fit less well.