What term describes an individual who regularly engages in thefts such as burglary or vehicle theft?

The term that best describes an individual who regularly engages in thefts, such as burglary or vehicle theft, is professional thief. This designation implies a person who not only participates in criminal activities consistently but often has developed skills, strategies, and perhaps a network in the world of crime. A professional thief may be involved in multiple types of theft and is likely to treat the crime as a serious endeavor rather than a mere hobby or occasional lapse in judgment.

In contrast, other options highlight different types of offenders. An amateur thief typically lacks the experience and commitment associated with a professional; they may engage in theft impulsively and without planning. An occasional offender refers to someone who commits theft sporadically without a sustained focus on criminal activity. Lastly, a shoplifter is specifically someone who steals merchandise from retail establishments, which is a more narrow classification compared to professional thieves involved in larger-scale thefts like burglary or auto theft.