Macon County Law Enforcement Center (MCLC) Comprehensive State Practice Exam

Which of the following is a sign of illegal entry into a business or dwelling?

1. Broken glass at the window latch

2. Loud noises coming from inside

3. Closed doors that are usually open

4. Papers scattered on the floor

The correct answer is: Broken glass at the window latch

Broken glass at the window latch indicates a potential sign of illegal entry because it suggests that someone may have forcibly entered the building by breaking the glass to unlock or open the window. This physical evidence not only demonstrates an act of vandalism but also implies that an unauthorized person may have accessed the premises with the intent to commit a crime, such as burglary or theft. In contrast, loud noises coming from inside could be attributed to a variety of benign activities and don’t necessarily indicate illegal entry. Closed doors that are usually open may suggest something is amiss, but they don't provide direct evidence of forced entry. Similarly, while scattered papers could imply a disturbance, they are not definitive proof of illegal entry, as they may result from normal activity or disorganization rather than criminal intent. Thus, broken glass at the window latch stands out as the most clear and compelling sign of potential illegal entry into a building.