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 Arizona, 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, with penalties ranging from fines and probation to long-term imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime. For example, Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-1203 to 13-1204 cover assault and aggravated assault, while ARS 13-1105 defines first-degree murder. On the other hand, crimes against property, such as criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, theft, arson, and offenses involving fraud or deception, are focused on the unlawful taking or damaging of another's property. These crimes can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties including restitution, fines, and imprisonment. For instance, ARS 13-1502 to 13-1504 detail the various degrees of criminal trespassing, and ARS 13-1602 covers criminal damage to property. Both categories of crimes are taken seriously by law enforcement and the courts, and individuals charged with such offenses are advised to seek the counsel of an attorney.