"Grand Theft" Was Stolen

From znet.com:

Game publisher Take-Two Interactive Software confirmed that a purloined copy of "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas," set for commercial release next week, is making the rounds of "warez" sites used to swap pirated software.

According to a company representative, "We take the theft of our intellectual property very seriously, and we are and will continue to diligently and aggressively pursue this matter."  The company urges anyone with any information about the theft to contact piracy@rockstargames.com.

I find it interesting that people who enjoy playing a game called "Grand Theft Auto" would steal software.  I guess they have no regard for the property of others.

Interestingly, with the list price of $49.99, the crime may not be grand theft in Oklahoma (21 Okla. Stat. 1704, requiring a value of $500).  However, a different statute may apply in this case.  21 Olka. Stat. 1732 deals with larceny of trade secrets.  According to this statute, "the value of the trade secret and not the value of the article shall be controlling."  If the thief shared copies, the value of the stolen secret may easily have exceeded the requisite $500.

For those interested in a legitimate copy of the newest installment of Grand Theft Auto, you can get it at overstock.com for $48.99 plus $1.40 shipping.  It is set to be released next Tuesday (October 26).