Legal issues
Key issues can include whether there was entry, whether the defendant was a trespasser, what they knew or believed about permission, what intent existed at the time of entry and what conduct occurred after entry. Aggravated burglary under section 10 has additional weapon-related elements.
Evidence that matters
Evidence often includes CCTV, alarm and access-control data, fingerprints, DNA, footwear marks, recovered property, phone/location records, vehicle evidence, messages, witness descriptions and explanations for lawful presence or possession.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Reasonable enquiries may include complete CCTV routes, access records, forensic comparison, ownership and recovery records, travel or location evidence, witness accounts about permission or occupancy and testing whether alleged stolen property can actually be linked to the premises.
What happens next
The route depends on the form and seriousness of the allegation. Domestic burglary and aggravated burglary can have particularly serious sentencing and Crown Court consequences. Investigation may continue while forensic and digital evidence is analysed.
Immediate steps
Preserve evidence of permission, work, tenancy, travel or location where relevant. Keep receipts or ownership material relating to recovered property. Identify CCTV sources before footage is overwritten.
What should you send us?
Send the allegation or charge, police and bail papers, next date, premises details, CCTV/forensic material, property recovery schedule, phone/location evidence and your chronology.