Question

Define Crime. Describe the characteristics and classification of crime.

Answer 1

crime is an action or omission which constitutes an offence and is punishable by law.

There are three categories of crime: Felonies, Misdemeanors, Violations (also known as infractions).

Characteristics:

Harm should have been caused, mere intention is not enough.

The harm must be legally forbidden. Anti-social behavior is not crime unless prohibited by law.

There must be conduct which brings harmful results.

Men’s rea or criminal intent must be present.

There must be a fusion or concurrence of men’s rea and conduct.