The bill amends the existing law on aggravated burglary by removing the term "dwelling" from the definition and expanding the scope to include unauthorized entry into vehicles, watercraft, and aircraft, in addition to other structures. The revised definition specifies that aggravated burglary occurs when a person enters these locations with the intent to commit a felony or theft, and outlines specific circumstances that elevate the crime, such as being armed with a deadly weapon or committing battery while in the location. The penalty for aggravated burglary remains a second-degree felony.
Additionally, the bill introduces a new crime called "home invasion," which is defined as the unlawful entry into a dwelling while an occupant is present, with the intent to commit a felony or theft. Similar to aggravated burglary, home invasion is classified as a second-degree felony and includes specific conditions that elevate the offense, such as being armed with a deadly weapon or engaging in threatening conduct that instills fear of immediate battery in another person.
Statutes affected: introduced version: 30-16-4