What might indicate a burglary occurred during a theft?

The presence of evidence of forced entry is a strong indicator that a burglary has occurred. In legal terms, burglary typically involves entering a building or property unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime inside, often theft. When there is clear evidence of forced entry—such as broken locks, damaged doors, or windows—it suggests that someone intentionally overcame physical barriers to unlawfully access the premises, aligning with the definition of burglary.

In contrast, the absence of any physical signs does not support the assertion that a burglary occurred, as it would suggest that there was no unlawful entry. Eyewitness testimony can provide valuable insights, but it may not be as definitive as physical evidence indicating forced entry. Similarly, a police report can document an incident, but without the specific detail of forced entry, it may not directly indicate that a burglary took place. Therefore, evidence of forced entry remains the most direct and compelling indicator of a burglary.