The research is motivated by the persistent occurrence of theft as a common form of criminality, which requires a comprehensive understanding that goes beyond merely reviewing penal norms. The objective of this research is to analyze the alignment and integration among the legal rules governing theft, the institutional mechanisms of law enforcement, and the legal culture that influences public compliance and responses to law enforcement. This study employs a normative juridical research method with a statute approach and a conceptual approach, using library research and qualitative analysis to develop legal arguments. The findings indicate that Indonesia’s legal framework provides a clear basis for criminalizing theft, particularly under Law No. 1 of 2023 (including Article 476), and also reflects differentiated provisions for various forms of theft. However, effective crime prevention and control depend on consistent and coordinated implementation by law enforcement agencies, as well as public awareness and willingness to respect property rights and report offenses. The study implies that strengthening regulation, improving law enforcement capacity, and fostering a supportive legal culture are essential to optimize the handling and prevention of theft offenses.Keywords: legal culture ; legal structure ; legal substance ; legal system ; theft
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