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 Michigan, 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 covered under various sections of the Michigan Penal Code. For example, assault and battery are typically covered under MCL 750.81, while more severe offenses like murder are detailed in MCL 750.316 and rape (referred to as Criminal Sexual Conduct) under MCL 750.520b to 750.520e, with varying degrees based on the severity of the crime. On the other hand, crimes against property, such as criminal trespassing, burglary, robbery, bribery, blackmail, theft, and arson, involve the deprivation or damage to someone's property. These are also defined in the Michigan Penal Code, with theft and larceny covered under MCL 750.356, burglary under MCL 750.110, and arson under MCL 750.72, among others. Each crime has specific elements that must be proven for a conviction and carries penalties that vary based on the severity of the offense and any aggravating factors.