The acts of breaking and entering a building were historically part of the definition of the crime of burglary. But most states have since broadened the definition of burglary to include any entry into a building without the permission of the owner and with the intent to commit a theft, assault, or other crime inside the building. But a few states still have a distinct criminal offense of breaking and entering a building.

And some states have a similar criminal offense of forcible and unlawful entry that make it a crime to force entry into an automobile, safe, ATM, parking meter, or vending machine.

Breaking and entering laws (and related property crime laws) are usually located in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes).

In Mississippi, burglary is defined under Mississippi Code Section 97-17-23. The state's definition of burglary has indeed broadened from the traditional concept of 'breaking and entering.' Burglary in Mississippi involves entering a dwelling or building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime therein, such as theft or assault. The entry does not need to involve force; even entering through an unlocked door or window can constitute burglary if done with criminal intent. Mississippi law also recognizes the separate offenses of breaking and entering a dwelling (Mississippi Code Section 97-17-37) and breaking and entering into a vehicle (Mississippi Code Section 97-17-41), which are distinct from burglary. These statutes cover the unlawful entry into various types of property, including automobiles, with the intent to commit a crime. The penalties for these offenses vary based on the circumstances of the crime, such as the type of building entered and whether it was occupied at the time of the offense.