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 New Mexico, 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. For example, New Mexico Statutes Chapter 30 Criminal Offenses, Article 3 details offenses against the person, including assault and battery, and Article 9 covers sexual offenses. On the other hand, crimes against property, such as criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, and arson, involve the taking of property, damage to property, or interference with another person's property rights. These crimes are also taken seriously, with penalties varying based on the severity of the offense, the value of the property involved, and other factors. New Mexico's criminal statutes, particularly Chapter 30, Articles 14 through 16, and Article 18, provide the legal framework for these offenses. Both categories of crimes are subject to state statutes, and certain cases may also be governed by federal law if they involve federal property or cross state lines.