Break-ins are on the rise during the COVID-19 pandemic

Céline Dostaler

Break and enter is one of the most common property offences in Canada. It occurs when someone enters a residence, business or other property without permission and commits or intends to commit a crime, typically theft.

The charge can be laid even if there is no forced entry, such as the case of someone entering through an open window or an unlocked door. If a person is not supposed to be there and has criminal intent, they can be found guilty, even if no theft or property damage occurs. For more, click here.