Thinking about it a bit, it actually does make sense. The language gymnastics are there to clearly distinguish this sort of thing from an act of theft. Change

Thinking about it a bit, it actually does make sense. The language gymnastics are there to clearly distinguish this sort of thing from an act of theft. Change the scene to that of a CEO who defrauds investors. The money was "voluntarily parted" by the investor; she didn't break into their house and steal the money. The money was obtained through fraud. So "fraud", "theft through fraud", and yes, "voluntary parting".