Crime

Felony

A Felony is the most serious type of crime, and generally the most dangerous. These crimes are usually violent in nature.

Hate Crimes

A hate crime is an act of violence toward a group of individuals based on their skin color, religion, sexual preference or ethnic background.

Stalking

Stalking occurs when an individual keeps in close proximity to a person for an extended period of time, possibly spying on them through the use of surveillance equipment. Stalking poses a potential threat of harm to the person who is being watched and followed. To qualify as stalking, the actions involved must take place more than one time. The crime will be upgraded to Aggravated Stalking if the stalker physically harms the victim in any way.

Rape

Rape occurs when one person is forced against their will to participate in a sexual activity. Rape can cause both physical and emotional scarring and lead to hospital stays and mental health counseling.

Statutory Rape is a sexual act with a minor. While the act may not have been forced, the minor involved will be deemed too young to properly understand the circumstances.

Assault and Battery

Intimidating another person with the threat of violence and actually following through with the threat is known as Assault and Battery. The violent act may involve a weapon and is carried out for the purpose of causing bodily harm.

Kidnapping

The act of taking a person to any location against their will is Kidnapping. The term is most often associated with the taking of children, but there is no particular age limit to this crime. The level of seriousness already inherent in holding someone captive may be upgraded by the wearing of a mask, the presence of a weapon or the demand of a ransom. These factors will change the charge to Aggravated Kidnapping, which carries a heavier punishment.

Homicide

Homicide is the taking of another person's life. When this crime is planned in advance, it is known as murder; when it occurs "in the heat of the moment," it is considered manslaughter. Homicide is a serious crime, and in some cases, the killer may receive the death penalty.

Felonies are the most serious type of crime and therefore carry the most severe forms of punishment. A Felon who has served a prison sentence may have a difficult time returning to normal society and finding a good job with this mark on their criminal record.