Crimes are sometimes broadly classified or categorized by their nature—such as (1) crimes that are harmful to the victim’s body (assault, battery, rape, and murder) and are known as crimes against the person; and (2) crimes that are harmful to the victim by depriving him of his property or damaging his property and are known as crimes against property (criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, arson).

In North Carolina, crimes are indeed categorized by their nature, aligning with the broader legal tradition. Crimes against the person, such as assault, battery, rape, and murder, are offenses that cause physical harm or a threat of harm to individuals. These are considered very serious and are aggressively prosecuted, often carrying severe penalties including imprisonment, fines, and restitution. Assault and battery can range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of injury and the presence of aggravating factors. Rape and murder are felonies with potential life imprisonment or even the death penalty for the most serious cases. On the other hand, crimes against property, such as criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, and arson, involve the taking of property, illegal entry into someone else's property, or damage to property. The severity of these crimes can vary widely, with penalties ranging from fines and probation for lesser offenses to lengthy prison sentences for more serious offenses like armed robbery or arson causing significant damage or injury. North Carolina statutes provide specific definitions and penalties for these crimes, and the actual charge and punishment will depend on the circumstances of each case.