R v Andrew Lakeman

R v Andrew Lakeman

Gold pieces in Old School Runescape are intangible property within the meaning of section 4 of the Theft Act 1968. They are not pure information, are rivalrous, have ascertainable value, are bought and sold, and can be the subject of dishonest appropriation. The criminal law definition of property is broad and not constrained by civil law limitations or contractual terms. Accordingly, gold pieces can be stolen and are capable of being the subject of the offence of theft.

Parties
Appellant: Rex; Respondent: Andrew Lakeman
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
15 January 2026
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Preparatory Hearing Ruling
Outcome
Appeal allowed
Legal Topics
Theft, Digital Assets, Virtual Property, Computer Misuse, Money Laundering
Criminal Law Theft Digital Assets Virtual Property Computer Misuse Money Laundering

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Parties

Rex

Appellant

Andrew Lakeman

Respondent

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Preparatory Hearing Ruling

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether in-game 'gold pieces' in Old School Runescape constitute 'property' under section 4 of the Theft Act 1968

Ratio Decidendi

Gold pieces in Old School Runescape are intangible property within the meaning of section 4 of the Theft Act 1968. They are not pure information, are rivalrous, have ascertainable value, are bought and sold, and can be the subject of dishonest appropriation. The criminal law definition of property is broad and not constrained by civil law limitations or contractual terms. Accordingly, gold pieces can be stolen and are capable of being the subject of the offence of theft.

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed

Orders

  • Leave to appeal granted to the extent reasons go beyond grounds for which Judge gave leave.
  • Ruling of the Crown Court set aside; gold pieces in Old School Runescape are property for the purposes of the Theft Act 1968.