The acts of breaking and entering a building were historically part of the definition of the crime of burglary. But most states have since broadened the definition of burglary to include any entry into a building without the permission of the owner and with the intent to commit a theft, assault, or other crime inside the building. But a few states still have a distinct criminal offense of breaking and entering a building.

And some states have a similar criminal offense of forcible and unlawful entry that make it a crime to force entry into an automobile, safe, ATM, parking meter, or vending machine.

Breaking and entering laws (and related property crime laws) are usually located in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes).

In Colorado, burglary is defined under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 18 Criminal Code, Section 18-4-202 to 18-4-204. The state's definition of burglary has indeed been broadened beyond the traditional concept of 'breaking and entering.' Burglary in Colorado involves knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully in a building or occupied structure with the intent to commit a crime therein, not necessarily theft or assault. Colorado law recognizes different degrees of burglary, with first-degree burglary being the most serious, often involving a deadly weapon and targeting a dwelling. Additionally, Colorado has specific statutes for criminal trespass, which may cover lesser offenses of unlawful entry without the intent to commit an additional crime inside. The state does not have a distinct offense named 'breaking and entering,' but the acts typically associated with breaking and entering would fall under the broader burglary or criminal trespass statutes. Forcible entry into vehicles, safes, ATMs, and similar property would likely be prosecuted under these or other property crime laws, depending on the circumstances and intent of the offender.