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 Connecticut, burglary is defined under the Connecticut General Statutes Section 53a-101 to 53a-108. The state's definition of burglary has indeed been broadened beyond the traditional breaking and entering. Burglary in Connecticut is defined as entering or remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime therein. The severity of the charge can range from first-degree burglary, which is considered when the act is committed at night, if the perpetrator is armed, or if the building entered is a dwelling, to third-degree burglary for other types of buildings. Additionally, Connecticut law also addresses the unlawful entry into other types of property, such as motor vehicles, under separate statutes like Section 53a-107, which covers criminal trespass, and Section 53a-119, which covers larceny that could be applied to unauthorized entries into automobiles, safes, ATMs, and similar properties. It's important to note that specific circumstances of the crime, such as the use of force or the presence of occupants, can influence the exact charges and penalties.