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 South Carolina, 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 carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences for more severe offenses like murder. 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 unlawful entry with the intent to commit a crime therein. These crimes can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties varying based on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the crime. South Carolina 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 legal consequences associated with each offense.