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 Nebraska, crimes are indeed categorized by their nature, aligning with the broader legal principles. 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 often felonies, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment, and in some cases, life imprisonment or the death penalty for the most severe offenses like first-degree murder. On the other hand, crimes against property, including criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, and arson, involve the taking of property, damage to property, or unlawful entry with the intent to commit a crime. These can be classified as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity of the crime, the value of the property involved, and other circumstances. Penalties for property crimes can include fines, restitution, and imprisonment. Nebraska state statutes provide specific definitions and penalties for each of these crimes, and the state's criminal code can be referenced for detailed information on the classification and sentencing guidelines for each offense.