Flashcards Studio

Celia plans to steal a high-end laptop from a university computer lab after hours. She buys a flashlight, lock picks, and a lightweight backpack. Over two evenings she observes the lab’s layout, entry points, and security routines. On the third night, she uses the lock picks to force open the lab door, steps inside, and pockets a laptop from a desk with the intent to steal it. A security guard passes by, raises the alarm, and Celia flees, leaving the laptop behind.
(a) Distinguish between preparatory acts and overt acts in the context of criminal attempts, and identify which acts in Celia’s sequence are preparatory versus overt.
(b) Based on the facts, did Celia commit the crime of attempted theft? Explain the governing rule and apply it to determine whether there is an attempt and the likely penalty.
(c) If Celia had remained outside the lab door and never pried it open, but still intended to steal, would there be an offense? Why or why not?