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 Idaho, assault is defined under Idaho Code § 18-901 as an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, to commit a violent injury on the person of another, or an intentional act which may reasonably cause another person to fear immediate bodily harm. The definition aligns with the general concept that assault does not require physical contact but involves actions that put another person in fear of imminent harm. The crime can be charged as a misdemeanor, but certain circumstances, such as the use of a deadly weapon or the intent to commit a serious crime, can elevate the charge to aggravated assault, which is a felony under Idaho Code § 18-905. It's important to note that battery, which involves actual physical contact, is a separate offense under Idaho law, defined in Idaho Code § 18-903.