Which of the following best describes the intent behind embezzlement?

Embezzlement specifically involves the misappropriation or theft of funds placed in one's trust or belonging to one's employer. This definition highlights that embezzlement is not merely about stealing; rather, it fundamentally revolves around a betrayal of trust. The person committing embezzlement typically holds a position of responsibility where they have access to the funds or property of another party, such as an employer or a client.

The emphasis on defrauding someone of their trust captures the essence of embezzlement: the perpetrator unlawfully converts property for personal use with the intent to deceive the rightful owner. In this context, the act involves an element of deceit and manipulation that is critical to understanding embezzlement as a white-collar crime.

While other choices may highlight aspects that may occur in different crimes, they lack the specificity of intention tied to trust and deception inherent in embezzlement. The intent to cause harm or injury, for instance, is not a necessary component of embezzlement, as the focus is more on the violation of trust than on the physical or emotional harm to the victim.