Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Which scenario best illustrates the crime of residential burglary?

1. An intoxicated person entering and sitting on another's couch

2. A person breaking into a home to steal items

3. Someone taking a running car in a public area

4. Having a physical argument in a public park

The correct answer is: A person breaking into a home to steal items

The scenario that best illustrates the crime of residential burglary is when a person breaks into a home to steal items. Residential burglary is defined as the unlawful entry into a structure, typically a residence, with the intent to commit theft or another crime inside. This captures the essence of burglary, which involves illegal entry and the intent to commit a crime therein. In this case, the act of breaking into a home clearly indicates unlawful entry, and the intention to steal further confirms that it is a burglary situation. The focus on the residence aspect highlights the specific nature of the crime as it pertains to private property, emphasizing the violation of the homeowner's security and privacy, which are central to residential burglary offenses. In contrast, other scenarios listed involve actions that do not meet the criteria for residential burglary, such as trespassing without intent to commit theft or criminal acts in public spaces.