Crime refers to an act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or punishable by law. It encompasses a range of behaviors that violate legal statutes and societal norms, which can vary by jurisdiction. Crimes are generally categorized into two main types: felonies, which are serious offenses that typically result in harsher penalties such as imprisonment, and misdemeanors, which are less serious offenses with lighter penalties, such as fines or short-term imprisonment.
The definition of crime involves the concepts of legality, intent, and harm. A behavior is considered criminal if it is explicitly defined as such by law, entails a degree of intent (mens rea), and results in harm to individuals, property, or society as a whole. Legal systems also differentiate between various types of crimes, including violent crimes (e.g., murder, assault), property crimes (e.g., theft, burglary), white-collar crimes (e.g., fraud, embezzlement), and public order crimes (e.g., drug offenses, disorderly conduct).
The enforcement of laws against crimes is carried out by law enforcement agencies, and the justice system adjudicates alleged offenders through courts. The definitions and perceptions of crime can evolve over time with changes in laws, social attitudes, and cultural contexts.