What constitutes forgery in the third degree?

Forgery in the third degree is characterized by the act of making, completing, or altering a written instrument with the intent to defraud. This means that the individual must not only create or modify a document but must also do so with the specific intention to deceive or mislead another party for gain. The focus on intent is crucial, as the legal definition of forgery hinges on the purposeful act to defraud rather than a mere unintentional error or alteration.

The other options do not fulfill the criteria necessary for third-degree forgery. Altering a digital document without intent to defraud does not meet the definition, as intent is a critical component. Similarly, possessing a forged instrument without knowledge lacks the element of intentionality, which is essential in establishing forgery. Finally, destroying a forged document does not constitute the act of forgery itself, as it does not involve the creation or alteration of a written instrument with fraudulent intent. Thus, making, completing, or altering a written instrument with the intent to defraud is the accurate representation of third-degree forgery.