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Simple English definitions for legal terms
abigeus
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A quick definition of abigeus:
Term: ABIGEUS
Definition: Abigeus is a Latin word used in Roman and civil law to describe someone who steals a lot of cattle. They are also known as cattle-rustlers. If someone steals a single horse or ox, they can still be called an abigeus, but they need to steal at least four pigs or ten sheep to commit this crime. This type of theft was common in the past, and it was important to have laws to protect people's property.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Abigeus (pronounced "uh-BIJ-ee-uhs") is a Latin term used in Roman and civil law to refer to someone who steals cattle, especially in large numbers. This person is also known as a cattle-rustler. The plural form of abigeus is abigei.
According to James Fitzjames Stephen's book, A History of the Criminal Law of England, a person could be considered an abigeus if they stole four pigs or ten sheep. However, these animals did not have to be taken all at once.
Example: If someone were to steal a herd of cows from a farm, they would be considered an abigeus. However, if they only stole one or two cows, they would not be considered an abigeus.
This term is important in understanding the legal consequences of stealing livestock in ancient Rome and in some modern legal systems.