Which offense is defined as unlawfully entering a building with intent to commit a theft?

• A. Larceny
• B. Burglary
• C. Robbery
• D. Theft

Answer: (B)

Burglary centers on unlawful entry into a building with the intention to commit a crime inside. The essential idea is the combination of trespass (entering without permission) and the mental intent to commit theft (or another crime) once inside. This focus on entering with intent differentiates it from taking property itself, which is what larceny or theft cover. Robbery, on the other hand, involves taking property directly from a person through force or intimidation, not merely breaking into a structure. So when someone unlawfully enters a building with the plan to steal, the offense described is burglary.