In Birdy's Eyes:

What Is First-Degree Burglary?

There seems to be some confusion concerning the law in regards to the criminal action of Burglary, and maybe this article will clear up some of that confusion. The crime of theft falls under many categories. Depending on where the crime takes place and who is involved, criminals can be charged with petty theft or grand larceny. One type of theft is a burglary, this classification of theft that involves any unlawful entry into or onto private property, for the purposes of committing a felony or stealing another's property for his/her own personal usage.

The Definition

• First-degree burglary is defined as a person unlawfully entering a residence, intending to commit a crime against either the inhabitant or the property within.

Some Additional Crimes

• Theft is not the only crime covered by burglary. If the criminal assaults any person during the act or carries a deadly weapon on his person, this falls under first-degree burglary.

The Punishment

• First-degree burglary is a Class A felony, and those found guilty are likely to spend up to 9 years in a state prison.

The Types of Exceptions

• Entering and stealing from a commercial property, such as a business or office building, is considered second-degree burglary.

And Around the World

• In Scotland, burglary is defined as entering a residence with intent to steal, while in Canada, burglary is covered under the term "breaking and entering."

Hopefully the above explanation will assist those who were wondering what the exact definition of Burglary in the 1^st Degree was. -Birdy