National Investigators Exam (NIE) Practice Exam

Which of the following describes S9(1)(a) of the Theft Act?

1. The intention to commit a crime after entry

2. Entering a trespasser to commit GBH

3. Entering with intent to commit an offence before entry

4. Stealing after being in a building for an extended time

The correct answer is: Entering with intent to commit an offence before entry

S9(1)(a) of the Theft Act addresses the concept of burglary and specifically deals with the intention of the individual at the moment of entry into a building. The correct option states that the individual must enter with the intent to commit an offence before they enter the building. This means that the intention to commit a crime, such as theft, must be formulated prior to the actual act of entering the premises. In legal terms, this emphasizes the premeditated aspect of the crime of burglary, distinguishing it from situations where individuals may trespass without intent to commit further illegal activity. It underscores the importance of the intent at the time of entry, which is a critical component in determining whether the act constitutes burglary under the Theft Act. Other options do not accurately capture the essence of S9(1)(a). The intention to commit a crime after entry is relevant to a different context, reflecting a change in intent once inside. Entering a premises with the aim to cause grievous bodily harm pertains more to violent offences rather than specifically to the Theft Act's definition of burglary. Lastly, the notion of staying in a building for an extended period before stealing aligns with the concept of theft but does not incorporate the necessary pre-entry intent required by the legislation