Wisconsin § 943.12 - Possession of burglarious tools.

Full text of Wisconsin Wisconsin Statutes § 943.12 — Possession of burglarious tools., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 943.12. Possession of burglarious tools.

Whoever has in personal possession any device or instrumentality intended, designed or adapted for use in breaking into any depository designed for the safekeeping of any valuables or into any building or room, with intent to use such device or instrumentality to break into a depository, building or room, and to steal therefrom, is guilty of a Class I felony. 943.12 History History: 1977 c. 173 ; 2001 a. 109 . 943.12 Annotation A homemade key used to open parking meters is a burglarious tool. Perkins v. State, 61 Wis. 2d 341 , 212 N.W.2d 141 (1973). 943.12 Annotation It was implausible that the defendant was looking for the home of an acquaintance in order to pick up some artwork while carrying a crowbar, a pair of gloves, and a pair of socks. Hansen v. State, 64 Wis. 2d 541 , 219 N.W.2d 246 (1974). 943.12 Annotation Section 939.72 (3) does not bar convictions for possession of burglarious tools and burglary arising out of a single transaction. Dumas v. State, 90 Wis. 2d 518 , 280 N.W.2d 310 (Ct. App. 1979). 943.12 Annotation The defendant’s two prior convictions for burglary were admissible to prove intent to use gloves, a long pocket knife, a crowbar, and a pillow case as burglarious tools. Vanlue v. State, 96 Wis. 2d 81 , 291 N.W.2d 467 (1980).

Source: official Wisconsin text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin § 943.12

What does Wisconsin Statutes § 943.12 cover?

Section 943.12 ("Possession of burglarious tools.") is part of the Wisconsin Statutes, the codified statutory law of Wisconsin. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Wisconsin § 943.12?

A common citation format is "Wisconsin Statutes § 943.12" (Wisconsin). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Wisconsin law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Wisconsin official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.

How does Wisconsin § 943.12 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Wisconsin can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Wisconsin.