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 Vermont, burglary is defined under Vermont Statutes Title 13, Section 1201. The law has indeed broadened from the historical definition of burglary that required breaking and entering. In Vermont, a person is guilty of burglary if they enter any building or structure with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault, whether the building is occupied or not. There is no requirement for 'breaking' in the modern definition; simply entering without permission with the intent to commit a crime suffices. Additionally, Vermont law also addresses other property crimes that involve unlawful entry, such as unlawful mischief, which can include forcibly entering a vehicle or other property with the intent to commit damage. It's important to note that while Vermont's statutes cover a range of property crimes, the specific offense of 'breaking and entering' as a distinct charge is not listed, as the broader burglary statute encompasses various scenarios of unauthorized entry with criminal intent.