Learn about the 6 different ways criminal offenses are categorized in New York and how to get legal help when you’ve been arrested for a crime. 

1. Violent Crimes 

Violent crimes are criminal offenses against people and sometimes animals. The most common violent crimes are murder, manslaughter, rape, kidnapping, gang violence, child endangerment, robbery, and other types of sexual assault. These offenses generally carry the harshest penalties, with defendants often facing multiple years in prison, large fines, probation, and more. 

2. White Collar Crimes 

White collar crime is generally considered nonviolent and includes criminal charges like money laundering, extortion, illegal gambling, contraband smuggling, drug or human trafficking, and the production, distribution, or sale of counterfeit goods. Often, white collar crime involves multiple people and takes place internationally. However, some white collar criminals may also act alone. 

3. Organized Crime 

Organized crime is somewhat similar to white collar crime in that many white collar crimes are organized and many organized crimes are considered white collar. However, the two are not mutually inclusive and organized crime may involve businesses, corporations, C-suite executives, politicians, and other high-profile individuals to achieve a common, illegal, goal. 

4. Computer Crimes 

Computer crimes are technologically advanced criminal offenses that often fall within the categories of white collar crimes and/or organized crime. The most common computer crimes in New York include identity theft, data breaches, hacking, wire transfer fraud, credit card theft, and other crimes that can be committed using computer or internet technology. 

5. Public Order Crimes 

Crimes of public order are offenses that are considered to interrupt or go against societal norms. These may or may not endanger another person. Public order crimes can include solicitation, prostitution, disorderly conduct, public intoxication, possession of drugs, minor in possession of alcohol, and pornography (not involving a minor). 

6. Property Crimes 

Property offenses are typically nonviolent in nature and do not involve or cause harm to other people. For example, property crimes may include but aren’t limited to defacing public property, vandalism, possession of stolen property, arson (if the building isn’t occupied by people), property theft, grand theft auto, breaking and entering, etc. 

Protect Your Rights With the Help of a Criminal Defense Lawyer Now 

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with a seasoned criminal defense attorney in New York. Call Scott Cerbin today for your consultation at 718-596-1829.