FOCL Practice Test

What serious offense has Carlos committed when attempting to steal a car?

1. Theft

2. Burglary of vehicles

3. Robbery

4. Criminal trespass

The correct answer is: Burglary of vehicles

The correct answer is burglary of vehicles because this offense specifically involves the unlawful entry into a vehicle with the intent to commit theft or another crime. In the context of attempting to steal a car, it clearly fits this definition, as Carlos would be entering the vehicle without permission, intending to commit theft. The other options, while related to theft and property crimes, do not accurately depict the specific nature of Carlos's actions. Theft refers to the act of taking someone else's property without permission, but does not necessarily imply unlawful entry into a vehicle. Robbery involves taking property from a person through force or intimidation, which is not the case here; Carlos is attempting to steal a vehicle rather than confronting someone. Criminal trespass refers generally to entering someone's property without permission, but it lacks the specific intent associated with vehicle offenses. Thus, burglary of vehicles is the most precise characterization of Carlos's offense in this scenario.