ABSTRACT
In studying the history of criminal law and procedure, one recognizes that, in most societies, offenses that interfere with the sanctity of a person’s home are considered more serious than other property offenses, and are treated accordingly. This is especially true in countries that have followed traditional English law, in which the concept that a person’s home is his “castle” was recognized very early, and honored throughout many generations.Therefore, althoughcertain crimes, suchasarson andburglary, are essentially offenses against property, they are considered two of themost serious crimes. In addition, malicious mischief and trespass are included in this chapter. These two offenses are not normally as serious as arson and burglary, but share the characteristics of destruction and intrusion.
