How does the criminal justice system define burglary? What is to be expected for those arrested with these charges? The crime of burglary is an all too common crime committed. For those caught committing burglary, they might find themselves arrested and are now awaiting their court date. If so, they may not fully understand the state’s view on the crime committed. Ajua Bail Bonds will tell you how the state views the crime and how they define burglary.
Burglary Defined
Burglary is a crime where a person or persons illegally enter a building with the intent to commit illegal acts of crime within that building. If the person breaks into the building by force of entry either through breaking or picking locks, breaking windows or having no right entering into another person building its burglary. If items are destroyed or stolen within the home this too is an act of burglary. Each state may slightly vary in their definition of burglary, but it’s mostly the same. Burglary often involves entering a building or home without permission and by force. Burglary is a wobbler, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The intent to steal property, burglary is considered a felony even if the theft or stolen item’s value was under $500 which is considered a misdemeanor in most respects.
Difference Between Burglary & Trespassing
Burglary is viewed as a less serious crime similar to that of trespassing. However the crime is elevated when items are stolen and has its own level or degree of severity. The severity is based on the time of day the crime was committed. There is a less severe punishment if the burglary occurred during daylight hours, due to the lesser potential of residents being home. When burglaries occur at night, even if no one was at home, this shows the burglar is willing to commit violence to any person present during the time of the burglary.
Burglary Charges
In the past law enforcement would have needed to provide evidence of forced entry or locate and document the goods that were stolen. However this is no longer the case. Even if a person gets caught sticking their arm through a window with the intent to take another person’s property, they can be charged and convicted of burglary. Burglary was once defined as when a home or residential property was invaded. However burglary charges can now include barns, boats, cars, and commercial property. Additionally the crime of burglary also once meant items must have been stolen from the property in which the burglars forced their way into. However, once again a person can be charged with burglary without even actually taking anything. Prosecutors just need to show the intent to steal when an individual was found on someone else’s property without consent.
Bail Bond Services in Selma & Fresno County, Atwater & Merced County, Visalia & Tulare County, Hanford & Kings County, Madera County and the Central Valley of California
Ajua Bail Bonds has defined the crime of burglary as we want to enlighten those who have or plan to commit these said crimes. It is easier then ever to prosecute a person for burglary and it can now be considered a felony. Ajua Bail Bonds can assist in these individuals release from jail. However when it comes to their court appearance, they will need to prepare a strong defense. We wish you luck and for those who need to get out of jail after they have been arrested, Ajua Bail Bonds can provide a quick release. Contact us today.
