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 Oklahoma, 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. For example, assault and battery can range from simple assault (a misdemeanor) to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (a felony). Rape and murder are felonies with the potential for life imprisonment or even the death penalty in the most severe cases. 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 can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on factors like the value of the property involved and the presence of any aggravating circumstances. Oklahoma statutes provide specific definitions and penalties for each of these offenses, and the state's criminal code is designed to protect both the physical safety of its citizens and the security of their property.