The crime of assault varies from state to state (and under federal law), but is generally defined as intentionally putting another person in reasonable apprehension or fear of an imminent (immediate) harmful or offensive contact. The crime of assault may be committed even if there is no physical contact, as the criminal physical contact constitutes the separate crime of battery.
In Indiana, assault and battery are often discussed together, but they are distinct offenses. Indiana does not have a separate statute for 'assault' as some other states do. Instead, what is commonly referred to as assault in other jurisdictions may be encompassed under Indiana's battery laws or other related statutes such as intimidation or pointing a firearm. Indiana Code § 35-42-2 defines battery as knowingly or intentionally touching another person in a rude, insolent, or angry manner, or in a manner that results in bodily injury. The severity of the charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors such as the extent of injury, the use of a weapon, and the victim's status (e.g., if the victim is a minor or law enforcement officer). Fear of imminent harm without physical contact might be prosecuted under different statutes, such as intimidation, which is defined under Indiana Code § 35-45-2 as communicating a threat with the intent to cause another person to fear for their safety or the safety of others.