In the state of Maryland, the crime of burglary is actually not the same as offenses such as robbery or theft. The police may arrest you for burglary just for entering another property intending to commit a different crime. For this reason, various factors can affect the severity of burglary charges against you.

It is important to understand influencing factors in burglary cases as you could end up with significant prison time depending on the circumstances.

The intended crimes involved

State law may increase prison time depending on the type of crime someone intends to commit when invading a home or store. An intention to engage in theft could land you in prison for up to 20 years. Planning to commit a violent act may incur prison time no longer than 25 years. Other crimes include stealing a firearm or carrying out arson.

Location of the burglary

State law also determines different punishments depending on where someone breaks into. A research facility burglary is a felony punishable up to 5 years. Also, depending on the intentions of the burglar, breaking into the home of a person may invite greater prison time than invading a store.

Using tools and devices

State law also considers any tools used by a burglar to commit a crime. If a court convicts you of trying to use tools to break into an automobile, you would likely end up with a misdemeanor sentence of up to three years. However, using a destructive device to bust open a vault could land you in prison for 20 years.

Given that different factors could put you in prison for a long time, it is important to know the facts involved in your case if you have to deal with burglary charges.