Feature Article: The Legal Consequences of Burglarizing an Abandoned Building in Arizona

As kids, we may have secretly explored a creepy, abandoned house in our neighborhood, but have you ever thought about the consequences of doing that as an adult? Despite what you may believe, entering an abandoned building can result in serious criminal charges, such as trespassing, burglary, or theft. In this feature article, we will take a closer look at the laws surrounding abandoned properties in Arizona and the potential legal consequences of breaking into them.

What is an Abandoned Property?

The term abandoned property refers to a property that the owner has relinquished the rights to use or manage. Due to foreclosure, bankruptcy, or death of the owner, the property may be left unoccupied and uncared for. However, despite its lack of use, the property still belongs to someone, and it is illegal to unlawfully enter the said property without permission. In Arizona, trespassing is considered a crime, whether the land is occupied or not.

The Legal Consequences of Trespassing

In Arizona, trespassing is a misdemeanor crime punished with up to 6 months in jail and a fine of $750. Under Arizona law, trespassing is defined as entering or remaining unlawfully on a property knowing that you do not have the owner's consent. It applies to both public and private properties, where entry is prohibited by law, sign, or fence. The consequences of trespassing become more severe when the property in question is an abandoned building.

What is Burglary?

While trespassing refers to the unauthorized entry to a property, burglary involves the entry into a property with the intent to commit a crime, such as theft or vandalism. In Arizona, burglary is considered a felony crime and carries severe legal consequences. Under Arizona law, if you enter an unoccupied building with the intent to commit a theft or felony, you have committed burglary.

Legal Consequences of Burglary on an Abandoned Building

Arizona law does not differentiate between occupied and unoccupied buildings when it comes to burglary. This means that if you unlawfully enter an abandoned building with the intent to commit a crime, you may face severe legal penalties. Depending on the specifics of your case and the value of items stolen or damaged, you can face imprisonment for several years and hefty fines. Moreover, a burglary charge can have a lasting effect on your criminal record, making it harder to find employment and housing.

Squatter’s Rights

Squatter’s rights refer to the legal right of a person to claim unused land as their property after continuous occupation for a certain period, known as the statute of limitations. In Arizona, the squatter’s rights law states that an individual can claim ownership of land unchallenged after occupying it for ten years. However, this law does not apply to abandoned buildings, and the act of squatting on an abandoned property is considered trespassing, which is a crime.

Conclusion

Despite the popular misconception that abandoned properties are fair game for exploration, the reality is that entering and burglarizing an abandoned building can lead to severe legal repercussions in Arizona. The law treats trespassing and burglary on unoccupied properties as seriously as those on occupied properties, and it is critical to respect the rights of property owners, regardless of whether they are present or not. By avoiding the legal consequences of theft and trespassing, we can maintain the integrity of the law, protect our communities, and promote a safe and fair society.

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