The city property crime rate in Miami was higher than the national property crime rate average by 64.17% in 2009. Burglary is classified as a property crime because it involves the act of entering a dwelling, business or structure with the intent of stealing or committing a felony crime inside the premises. This crime is prosecuted aggressively by state prosecutors in Florida, and it is necessary to seek help from a knowledgeable Miami criminal defense attorney to avoid serious penalties.
According to Chapter 810 of the Florida Statutes, burglary (and trespassing) is a criminal offense. It is important to define the terms, so that you know exactly what you are facing. In order for a burglary charge to be valid, there has to have been some structure or dwelling involved. This is any building that has a roof and is either a temporary or permanent place. There has to be some found intent when speaking of burglary as well. There must have been a lack of consent on behalf of the individual(s) that own the building or dwelling and intent to take something from that property. Public places that have posted notices of penalties and “no trespassing” signs, if they are trespassed on, the violator may be guilty of a first or second degree misdemeanor. For a complete list and definitions of the Florida Statutes involving
burglary and trespass, follow the link.