Conn. Gen. Stat. 53a‑101 – Burglary in the First Degree

Connecticut General Statutes 53a‑101 explained for non lawyers

1. What the law prohibits

You’re guilty of first-degree burglary if you do any of the following while unlawfully entering or staying in a building with the intent to commit a crime:

1. You are armed with explosives, a deadly weapon, or a dangerous instrument;
2. You intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause—or try to cause—bodily injury to someone while committing the burglary; or
3. You enter or remain in a dwelling at night (any place people sleep) with criminal intent.

2. What the penalties are if someone is convicted

• It’s a Class B felony.
• You can face up to 20 years in prison.
• If the burglary involves a weapon or explosives (under point 1), you must serve at least 5 years in prison—this minimum sentence cannot be suspended or reduced by the court.

3. What the state has to prove (Elements of the offense)

To convict you, the prosecution must prove all of the following, beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. You entered or remained in a building or dwelling unlawfully, without permission;
2. You did so with intent to commit a separate crime inside; and
3. One of these must also be true:
   
   • You were armed with explosives or a deadly weapon, or
   • You caused or attempted bodily harm during the crime, or
   • You committed the offense in a dwelling at night.

For the actual statute, you can visit Justia which has the actual law on its website.

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