Which of the following describes prima facie conversion?

To understand why complete dispossession or destruction of property best describes prima facie conversion, it's important to consider the fundamental elements of the tort. Conversion occurs when a person intentionally interferes with another person's right to possess their property, leading to an unlawful taking or damaging of that property.

In the case of prima facie conversion, the key aspect is that the interference is so significant that it constitutes a complete dispossessive action. This can happen through outright destruction of the property or through actions that effectively deny the rightful owner access or control over their property. Thus, option C encapsulates the core principle of conversion by highlighting that the property has been entirely taken away or destroyed, which satisfies the legal requirements to establish this tort.

Other options do not capture the full essence of conversion. Unauthorized use without damaging the property fails to demonstrate the necessary level of interference. Physical damage without possession is insufficient because the concept of conversion requires a significant interference that leads to dispossession. Rental of property without permission might involve unauthorized use, but it does not necessarily lead to the complete dispossession that defines conversion. Therefore, option C stands out as the clear description of prima facie conversion due to the comprehensive nature of the interference it describes.