What distinguishes home invasion from regular burglary?

Home invasion is specifically characterized by the presence of an armed individual entering a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime, typically involving a threat to the occupants. Being armed with a dangerous weapon elevates the seriousness of the crime and signifies an intent to instill fear or potentially harm the residents within the home. This distinction is crucial because while burglary generally involves unlawfully entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or another crime, home invasion encompasses the additional element of using or threatening violence against those inside the home.

Other elements, such as the time of the crime (for example, daytime or nighttime), may apply to burglary laws but do not specifically distinguish home invasion. The use of a weapon creates an immediate sense of danger for individuals present, which is not a requirement in standard burglary cases. Thus, being armed with a dangerous weapon is the defining factor that differentiates home invasion from other forms of burglary.