1.13. Different Types of Crimes and Offenses 
SHANELL SANCHEZ 
Once an act gets identified as a crime, the law then attempts to define crime in a way that can distinguish 
the harm done and the severity of the crime. There are different types of crime and two different types of 
offenses that will get discussed. In the previous section, street crime, corporate crime, and white-collar crime 
get discussed. However, more broadly, there are crimes against the person, crimes against property, crimes 
against public order, and drug crime that typically get counted and fall under street crime. 
Crimes Against the Person 
Crimes against the person are often considered the most serious and may include homicide, rape, 
assault, kidnapping, and intimate partner violence. Each of these crimes can carry a different penalty 
based upon the seriousness of the crime. For example, because Ted Bundy murdered women, rather 
than ‘just’ assaulted, Bundy was eligible for capital punishment in the U.S. The state defines the crime 
and the punishment. 
Crimes Against Property 
Property crimes are widespread and seen as less severe than crimes against the person. Property crimes 
may include larceny, burglary, arson, and trespassing. There are varying degrees of liability depending 
on the circumstances of the case. 
Crimes Against Public Order 
Public order crimes may not harm other people or property but impact social order. Think back to 
the example of feeding homeless in community’s where that is illegal. Other typical examples would 
be disorderly conduct, loitering, and driving under the influence. The victim is society, and the goal 
is to maintain social order. Many debates whether certain crimes against public order are more or less 
severe, but get inappropriately punished. For example, driving while intoxicated can take lives and may 
be more severe. However, the law will charge for vehicular manslaughter or murder if life gets taken 
because someone drove drunk. 
Drug Offenses 
Most often drug offenses can be seen as a crime against public order, but the United States reaction to 
illegal drug use has altered the resources of the CJ system because of the “war on drugs.” Some examples 
of drug offenses can be possession of illegal drugs, being high, and selling. Punishment will vary based 
on the drug, how much of the drug is in possession or sold, and where it gets sold. 
Misdemeanor 
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