The state obtains the property of someone who dies intestate through which legal principle?

The correct principle that allows the state to obtain the property of someone who dies intestate is escheat. Escheat occurs when a person dies without a valid will and without identifiable heirs. In such cases, the state has the right to take ownership of the decedent's property. This legal concept exists to prevent property from being unclaimed and ensures that it is put to public use, often reverting to the state for management and potential redistribution.

In situations where individuals die intestate, the legal framework guiding the distribution of their assets follows the principle of escheat, protecting the interests of the community and state by managing unassigned or orphans property. Other options, such as police power, eminent domain, and taxation, relate to different circumstances involving government authority or property use but do not pertain to the condition where property reverts to the state due to a lack of heirs.