Crime

Crime refers to an act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or punishable by law. It encompasses a wide range of behaviors that violate legal statutes, which can vary by jurisdiction. Crimes are generally categorized into two main types: felonies, which are serious offenses typically punishable by imprisonment for over a year or by death, and misdemeanors, which are less serious offenses punishable by fines or imprisonment for less than a year.

Crimes can further be classified into different categories, such as violent crimes (e.g., assault, murder), property crimes (e.g., theft, burglary), white-collar crimes (e.g., fraud, embezzlement), and victimless crimes (e.g., drug use, prostitution). The legal definition of crime is typically determined by statutes enacted by legislatures and interpretations by the judiciary. It is a concept closely tied to morality, social norms, and the protection of individuals and property within society. The enforcement of laws against crime is the responsibility of law enforcement agencies, and the adjudication of crimes is handled by judicial systems.