What differentiates burglary from theft?

Burglary is primarily defined by the unlawful entry into a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft, once inside. This distinguishes it from theft, which involves the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.

The requirement of breaking and entering is central to the definition of burglary; it emphasizes the element of trespass—gaining unauthorized access to a property, which is a critical factor in establishing this crime. While theft can occur without entering a building—for example, stealing something from a vehicle—the act of burglary inherently involves that element of entry, whether through force or deception.

In contrast, the other choices do not define the key elements that differentiate burglary from theft effectively. The value of the stolen property pertains more to the classification of theft rather than distinguishing it from burglary. The use of a weapon may elevate the severity or classification of a crime but is not a defining element of either burglary or theft in general terms. Similarly, the intent to resell stolen property relates to the motives behind the crime rather than defining its legal classification.