Virginia Burglary Defense

§ 18.2-89 (Armed), § 18.2-90 & § 18.2-91 (Statutory) • D.J. Rivera, Esq.

§ 18.2-89 — Armed Burglary

If any person in the nighttime enters without breaking, or in the daytime breaks and enters or enters and breaks, the dwelling house of another, with intent to commit murder, rape, robbery or arson, he shall be deemed guilty of burglary.

§ 18.2-90 & § 18.2-91 — Statutory Burglary

Any person who, in the daytime or nighttime, breaks and enters or enters and breaks any office, shop, storehouse, warehouse, or any other building or structure with intent to commit larceny, or any felony other than murder, rape, robbery or arson, shall be deemed guilty of statutory burglary.

Penalties

Armed Burglary / Dwelling: 5 years to life
Statutory Burglary: Class 2 felony (20 years to life) or Class 3 felony

Defense Strategies

Lack of intent to commit a felony inside
No breaking or entering occurred
Misidentification or alibi
Illegal search of the property
Negotiating reduction to misdemeanor trespass or petit larceny

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