Burglary

From ArticleWorld

Burglary is the crime committed by a person who breaks into a house or building with intent to gain or commit a crime, and without the consent of the owner.

Federal Bureau of Investigation data shows that in the United States, a house is burglarized every fifteen seconds.

The law does not require that theft be committed in the course of Robbery to be prosecuted for the crime. It is enough that there is trespass to dwelling or a building, with the intention of committing a crime. The usual goal of a burglar in trespassing is theft or rape.

Elements

1. Lack of consent or permission from the owner
2. Intention of the burglar of trespasser. It is easier to prove that a burglar intended to steal something. However, it is more difficult to prove the intent of committing rape or to cause damage to property.
3. Trespass or entry into a dwelling or building, or a part of it. A person may have been given permission to enter a certain part of a building but the entry becomes illegal when made beyond the allowable areas.

The crime of Burglary can be aggravated when the burglar is found in possession of firearms or similar weapons, at the time the trespassing was committed.

Burglary in other parts of the globe

While the essential elements are present, Burglary is referred to by varying terms in different countries. What is known as Burglary in the United States is the crime of Breaking and Entering in Canada. It is considered as Theft under the 1968 Theft Act of England. In the same country, the crime is punishable by a penalty of six months to life imprisonment. In Scotland, it is known as Theft by housebreaking.

While everyone is in danger and vulnerable to be victimized by Burglary, authorities say that this is a crime that can be prevented. The homeowners must know how to protect their property and must not give windows of opportunity to burglars.

Not all homeowners can afford a 24-hour security in their property but they can invest in a good door lock, sturdy doors and must be conscious of their security all the time.