When does nighttime, in relation to breaking and entering, begin?

Nighttime, in the context of breaking and entering, is defined as beginning one hour after sunset. This specific time frame is established in legal terminology to distinguish between different degrees of burglary offenses, as nighttime is often viewed as an aggravating factor. The law takes into account the cover of darkness, making it easier for an offender to commit a crime without being observed.

Understanding this precise definition helps law enforcement and legal professionals assess the circumstances under which a breaking and entering incident occurs, particularly regarding intent and the potential for harm or malice during the cover of night. The other options, while they describe various ways one might think about when darkness begins, do not align with the legal definition that is applied in these cases.