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 Tennessee, crimes are categorized into various classifications, including crimes against the person and crimes against property. Crimes against the person, such as assault, battery, rape, and murder, involve harm or the threat of harm to an individual's physical safety and well-being. These offenses are taken very seriously and can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties varying based on the severity of the crime, the harm inflicted, and the circumstances surrounding the incident. On the other hand, crimes against property, such as criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, and arson, involve the unlawful taking, damaging, or interference with another person's property. These crimes can also range from less severe misdemeanors to serious felonies, with punishments including fines, restitution, and imprisonment. Tennessee law provides specific statutes that define and prescribe penalties for these offenses, ensuring that individuals who commit such crimes are held accountable under the state's legal system.