Burglary is generally the unlawful entry of a building or structure to commit a felony criminal offense (crime), theft, or assault. The definition of burglary varies from state to state (and in the federal system), and some states have different degrees of severity of the burglary offense—depending on the nature of the unlawful entry (type of building or structure), the intended purpose, and the illegal action taken by the defendant once inside the building or structure. In some states, breaking into an automobile, a coin-operated machine, or an ATM (automated teller machine) with the intent to commit a theft may also constitute the crime of burglary.

In Louisiana (LA), burglary is defined under Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 14:62. Burglary involves the unauthorized entering of any dwelling, vehicle, other structure, or cemetery, with the intent to commit a felony or theft therein. Louisiana law distinguishes between simple burglary, aggravated burglary, and burglary of a pharmacy, each with varying degrees of severity. Simple burglary is the unauthorized entry into a structure with the intent to commit a felony or theft. Aggravated burglary is considered more serious and involves the burglary of an inhabited dwelling or when the offender is armed with a dangerous weapon. Burglary of a pharmacy specifically targets the illegal entry with the intent to steal a controlled substance. Penalties for burglary offenses in Louisiana vary based on the type of burglary committed and can include fines, imprisonment, or both. It is important to note that the specific circumstances of the burglary can greatly affect the charges and penalties, and an attorney can provide more detailed information based on the facts of a particular case.