How is burglary defined?

Burglary is defined as the unlawful entry into a closed structure with the intent to commit theft or another crime. This definition captures the essential elements of the offense: the act of entering a building or enclosure without permission and the intention to commit a further criminal act, commonly theft.

The emphasis on both unlawful entry and the intent to commit a crime distinguishes burglary from other offenses. The term "closed structure" is broad enough to cover various types of buildings, whether residential (dwellings) or commercial, which reflects the legal concept that burglary is about trespassing with criminal intent. It is also important to note that while theft is commonly associated with burglary, the intent could also be to commit other felonies.

This understanding of burglary recognizes that simply breaking into a location isn't sufficient for a charge of burglary; the intent behind that action plays a critical role in defining the crime. Hence, the correct definition aligns with well-established legal principles concerning burglary.