Which scenario best illustrates 'criminal intent' in breaking and entering cases?

The scenario involving a person breaking a window to access a vacant building best illustrates 'criminal intent' in breaking and entering cases because it demonstrates a deliberate and unlawful act. In this context, criminal intent refers to the perpetrator's conscious decision to commit an illegal act with the purpose of entering the premises without permission.

In this situation, the act of breaking a window indicates an intention to forcefully enter the property, which aligns with the definition of breaking and entering. There is a clear understanding that the individual is aware that their actions are illegal, as breaking windows is typically associated with criminal activity. By choosing to break an entry point, the person shows a willful disregard for the law and the property rights of the owner.

The other scenarios do not exemplify criminal intent. For instance, entering a building by mistake implies a lack of intent to commit a crime; doing so during operational hours without any unlawful purpose suggests the person is acting within legal boundaries. Lastly, obtaining permission from the owner eliminates any criminal intent since consent to enter the property is granted. This reinforces the notion that intent in breaking and entering must involve an unlawful objective, which is clearly illustrated in the scenario of breaking a window.