Entering a building unlawfully with intent to commit a felony or steal valuable property describes which offense?

• A. Burglary
• B. Trespass
• C. Arson
• D. Home Invasion

Answer: (A)

Burglary is defined by two key elements: unlawful entry into a building or occupied structure and the intent to commit a crime inside, such as a felony or theft. The scenario fits precisely because someone enters a building without permission with the purpose of committing a crime inside. If there were no criminal intent, it could be trespass, but the crucial factor here is the intent to commit a crime once inside. Arson is about setting fire to property, which is a different offense, and home invasion involves entering a dwelling with intent to commit a crime (often with force or threats), a nuance that isn’t required by the description.