What is meant by armed burglary?

Armed burglary refers specifically to the act of breaking and entering a dwelling with the intent to commit a felony while being armed. This definition emphasizes two crucial elements: the act of entering unlawfully and the possession of a weapon during this act. The focus on ‘at night’ highlights the heightened risk associated with this type of crime, as it often involves a greater potential for confrontation and harm to individuals present.

The intent to commit a felony indicates that the act goes beyond mere theft; it can involve various serious offenses. Being armed during this act elevates the severity and potential penalties associated with the crime, as it poses a greater threat to safety and can lead to violent confrontations. The other options do not capture the specific legal definition of armed burglary, as they lack the elements of intention to commit a felony or the aspect of being armed during the unlawful entry.