Which statement best describes burglary?

• A. Whoever intentionally enters places without consent and with the intent to steal or commit a felony
• B. Burglary can only occur at night
• C. Burglary requires damage to property
• D. Burglary requires the owner present

Answer: (B)

Burglary focuses on two things: the act of entering a structure and the intent to commit a crime inside. In Wisconsin, this means entering a building or dwelling not open to the public with the purpose of stealing or committing a felony (or remaining there with that intent). The time of day, property damage, or the owner’s presence are not required elements of burglary. A burglary can occur during the day or at night, and it can happen whether or not anything is actually stolen or damaged.

Among the given statements, the one that best captures these elements describes entering places without consent and with the intent to steal or commit a felony. The other statements are inaccurate because burglary is not limited to nighttime, does not require damage, and does not require the owner's presence.