State Farm Insurance License Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of forced entry in burglary?

1. Entering through an open window.

2. Breaking a window to gain access.

3. Using a key to open a locked door.

4. Walking through an unlocked back door.

The correct answer is: Breaking a window to gain access.

The scenario of breaking a window to gain access exemplifies forced entry in burglary because it involves the use of physical force to overcome a barrier designed to protect the premises. This act demonstrates the perpetrator's intent to illegally enter a property by damaging it, which is a key characteristic of forced entry. In contrast, entering through an open window, using a key to open a locked door, or walking through an unlocked back door does not involve any forceful action to gain access, and therefore would not be classified as forced entry. Each of those actions relies on the absence of barriers or the legitimate possession of access tools, differentiating them significantly from the act of breaking a window.