To many people, burglary is synonymous with theft. People often envision cat burglars as popularized in Hollywood films and television shows. However, burglary is often far more banal than it is glamorous.
Burglary charges usually don’t result from people using specialized equipment to access skyscrapers or banks to steal works of art or millions of dollars in cash. In fact, burglary does not even necessarily need to involve theft. People can face burglary charges in a variety of different scenarios that do not necessarily involve misappropriating money or property.
Burglary involves unlawful property access
Burglary offenses entail accessing a property without the consent or knowledge of the owner or occupants, typically for illegal purposes. People can face burglary charges because they hide in the bathroom or storage portion of a retail business until it closes for the night. Similarly, staying behind after a real estate open house to look for jewelry or medication could lead to burglary charges.
The person accused does not have to force entry into the property, nor do they have to leave with assets they intend to steal for the state to pursue burglary charges. Those who unlawfully access a property to commit crimes other than theft, such as assault, might also potentially face burglary charges.
Sometimes, what looks like burglary is actually conduct that has a perfectly legal and innocent explanation. Those accused of breaking the law may need help reviewing their situation to determine the best way to respond, and that’s okay. Fighting burglary charges typically requires careful planning and an understanding of the law. Challenging evidence or providing an alternate explanation can both be options for those facing allegations of burglary.