Who has the right to prevent theft by seizing stolen property?

The correct answer is that anyone has the right to prevent theft by seizing stolen property. This principle is based on the concept of "citizen's arrest," which allows individuals to detain someone they believe is committing a crime, such as theft.

In Texas, and many other jurisdictions, the law recognizes that individuals have a vested interest in protecting their property and the property of others. Therefore, if a person witnesses a theft occurring, they have the authority to act to stop the theft and reclaim the stolen items, provided that their actions are reasonable and proportionate to the situation. This means that while a person can intervene, they must also exercise caution and ensure they do not use excessive force.

The notion that only specific groups, such as security officers or police officers, have this authority is not consistent with the broader legal framework that empowers all citizens to act in defense of property against theft. Individuals in various roles, including store owners and passersby, can intervene to prevent the crime and recover stolen goods when they are directly involved in the situation.