Burglary

Burglary is a criminal offense that involves unlawfully entering a building or other structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. The act is commonly associated with theft, but the prohibited intent can be the commission of any offense. Entry may occur by force, deception, covert entry, or simply remaining inside after access has been gained with unlawful purpose.

Elements of burglary typically include (1) unlawful entry or remaining in the premises, (2) a building or structure that is protected by law, such as a dwelling or business, and (3) the intent to commit a crime at the time of entry. Some jurisdictions distinguish between entering a dwelling and entering other types of structures, and some require breaking (using force) as part of the offense, while others treat entry accomplished without force as burglary if the requisite intent is present.

Burglary is distinct from robbery, which involves force or intimidation against a person to obtain property, and from larceny or theft, which generally involves taking property without the element of entering to commit the crime. In many legal systems, burglary is treated as a felony and may carry enhanced penalties in certain circumstances, such as if the structure is a dwelling, the entry occurs at night, or a weapon is involved.

Jurisdictions often subdivide burglary into degrees or forms, such as first-degree burglary (often involving a dwelling, nighttime entry, or use of a weapon) and second-degree burglary (non-dwelling structures or other conditions). Penalties vary widely but commonly include imprisonment, fines, and long-term legal and social consequences. Prevention focuses on securing entrances, lighting, alarms, surveillance, and community safety measures.