National Investigators Exam (NIE) Practice Exam

What is a feature of aggravated burglary?

1. It involves theft without entry

2. It includes the use of a weapon or causing injury

3. It is not a serious offense

4. It can include property damage only

The correct answer is: It includes the use of a weapon or causing injury

A feature of aggravated burglary is that it includes the use of a weapon or causing injury. This distinction is fundamental because aggravated burglary elevates the severity of the crime beyond a standard burglary, which may involve entering a building with the intent to commit theft but without any threatening behavior. The inclusion of a weapon or the act of causing injury not only indicates the potential for increased danger to victims but also aligns with legal definitions that classify the offense as more serious due to the additional risk and harm involved. In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe features of aggravated burglary. For instance, theft without entry would not qualify as burglary at all, as entry is a key element of the crime. Additionally, asserting that it is not a serious offense undermines the legal implications associated with aggravated burglary, which is indeed considered a felony in many jurisdictions. Finally, the idea that it can include property damage only neglects the critical elements of threat or violence that specifically characterize an aggravated situation. Therefore, recognizing the connection between the use of a weapon or infliction of injury is crucial in understanding what makes burglary "aggravated."