What defines theft by receiving stolen property?

Theft by receiving stolen property is defined by the knowledge of the receiver regarding the stolen nature of the property and the act of retaining it. This means that if a person receives property and is aware that it has been stolen, continuing to hold onto that property constitutes theft by receiving. The legal framework for this crime emphasizes the necessity of the recipient's knowledge regarding the stolen status of the item. In contrast to other choices that involve actions like stealing directly or obtaining property legitimately, this specific definition hinges on the awareness of the stolen status and the subsequent retention of that property. Therefore, option A accurately captures the essence of theft by receiving stolen property in Georgia law.