Breaking & Entering Charges – Regis College
Defending Regis College Students Accused of Breaking & Entering
Dedham District Court & College Disciplinary Hearings
Breaking and entering charges in Massachusetts are aggressively prosecuted and can quickly escalate into felony cases carrying severe penalties. For Regis College students, these allegations often trigger not only criminal charges but also serious disciplinary action from the college.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett defend Regis College students accused of breaking and entering with a focused strategy designed to protect your freedom, your academic standing, and your future.
Understanding Breaking & Entering Charges in Massachusetts
Breaking and entering offenses are governed by M.G.L. c. 266, §§ 16–17. The severity of the charge depends on the time of day, location, and intent at the time of entry.
Common scenarios involving college students include:
-
Entering restricted campus buildings or residence halls
-
Unauthorized entry into dorm rooms or off-campus housing
-
Allegations involving pranks, parties, or misunderstandings
-
Accusations involving intent to steal or commit another offense
Even when no property is taken and no damage occurs, prosecutors may still pursue serious charges.
Criminal Charges vs. College Discipline
Breaking and entering cases almost always involve two separate proceedings:
-
A criminal case in Dedham District Court
-
A Regis College disciplinary investigation
These processes are independent. A favorable outcome in court does not guarantee the college will dismiss disciplinary charges, making early legal coordination critical.
Legal Consequences of Breaking & Entering
Penalties vary depending on the nature of the alleged offense:
Breaking & Entering at Night with Intent to Commit a Felony (Burglary)
-
Up to 20 years in state prison
Breaking & Entering in the Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony
-
Up to 10 years in state prison
Breaking & Entering with Intent to Commit a Misdemeanor
-
Up to 6 months in jail
-
Fine up to $200
A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, graduate school admission, and professional licensing.
All criminal cases for Regis College students are handled at:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street
Dedham, MA 02026
Regis College Policies and Disciplinary Actions
Regis College enforces strict rules regarding unauthorized entry, residence hall access, and campus security. Allegations of breaking and entering often result in immediate disciplinary review under the Student Handbook and Residence Life policies.
Possible sanctions include:
-
Disciplinary probation
-
Suspension
-
Expulsion
-
Loss of housing or campus privileges
College disciplinary action may proceed even if criminal charges are reduced or dismissed.
Relevant policies can be reviewed here:
https://www.regiscollege.edu/studenthandbook
https://www.regiscollege.edu/regis-life/residence-life/residence-hall-policies
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes breaking and entering under Massachusetts law?
Unlawfully entering a building, residence, vehicle, or structure with the intent to commit a felony or misdemeanor.
How does Regis College handle these allegations?
The college conducts its own investigation and may impose sanctions regardless of the criminal case outcome.
What should I do if I am accused?
Do not speak with police, campus security, or college administrators until you have consulted with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Defense Strategies for Breaking & Entering Charges
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett build defenses tailored to the facts of each case, which may include:
-
Challenging whether entry was truly unauthorized
-
Disputing alleged criminal intent
-
Suppressing evidence obtained unlawfully
-
Highlighting misunderstandings or lack of intent
-
Coordinating criminal defense with college disciplinary strategy
Early legal intervention often makes the difference between dismissal, reduction, or severe penalties.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
-
Extensive experience defending breaking and entering and burglary cases
-
Proven advocacy for college students facing criminal and disciplinary action
-
In-depth knowledge of Dedham District Court
-
Strategic coordination between court defense and campus proceedings
-
Focused on protecting students' education, reputation, and future
Protect Your Future – Contact Us Today
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Cranston Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com
We offer confidential consultations for Regis College students facing breaking and entering charges and are prepared to act immediately to protect your rights, your education, and your future.
