What does defrauding an innkeeper entail?

Defrauding an innkeeper specifically refers to the act of obtaining food, lodging, or other services from a hospitality establishment without the intent to pay. This can involve leaving the premises without settling the bill or refusing to pay for services rendered. The intent to defraud is crucial in establishing this offense, as it demonstrates the individual's planned deceit to avoid payment. This is classified under California Penal Code 496, addressing the obligations of patrons and the rights of innkeepers.

The other options, while possibly related to theft or fraud, do not capture the specific nature of defrauding an innkeeper. Stealing items from a hotel room aligns more closely with theft rather than the particular act of defrauding an innkeeper, which focuses on service provision. Misrepresenting oneself or using another person's credit card could pertain to other types of fraud but are not strictly categorized under the specific behavior of defrauding an innkeeper, which is centered on the context of unpaid services in a hospitality setting.