What defines "burglary" under Title 18?

Burglary under Title 18 is defined as unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit a crime inside. This definition encompasses not only the physical act of entering a structure without permission but also includes the necessary mens rea, or the intent to commit an unlawful act once inside. The focus is on the unlawful entry and the intention behind that act, which distinguishes burglary from other related offenses, such as simple trespassing.

The other definitions do not fully encapsulate the legal definition of burglary within Title 18. For instance, simply entering a building to steal does not necessarily imply unlawful entry, as one might have permission to be inside. Similarly, the term "breaking and entering for malicious intent" does not explicitly include the requirement of intent to commit a crime inside the building, making it less precise in its legal application. Lastly, entering property after hours does not satisfy the legal criteria for burglary unless the act is coupled with the intent to commit a crime. Thus, the correct definition emphasizes both the unlawful entry and the intention to commit an offense.