Criminal offenses in the United States can be categorized in many different ways, two broad categories are: violent crimes or non-violent crimes based on whether physical force or the threat of force is involved. This classification significantly impacts how crimes are prosecuted, the prison sentences imposed, and the long-term consequences for defendants.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, understanding the distinction between crimes of violence and non-violent offenses is crucial. The attorneys at Garland, Samuel & Loeb have decades of experience providing legal representation in high-stakes cases.
Breaking Down the Difference Between Violent and Non-Violent Crimes
The primary distinction between violent crimes and non-violent crimes lies in whether bodily harm or the threat of force is present.
- Violent crimes involve direct harm or the use of force against another person. These offenses often result in harsher prison sentences and more severe consequences.
- Non-violent crimes generally involve illegal activities that do not physically injure others, such as property crimes, fraud, and certain drug offenses. While these crimes can still carry significant penalties, they often lead to lighter sentencing than violent offenses.
Both categories of crimes can have long-lasting impacts on a person’s criminal record, employment opportunities, and reputation. Having a skilled criminal defense attorney is critical for navigating the criminal justice system and building a strong defense.
Examples of Violent and Non-Violent Crimes
Below is a side-by-side comparison of common violent and non-violent crimes, along with the relevant Georgia and federal statutes:
Violent Crimes | Relevant Statutes | Non-Violent Crimes | Relevant Statutes |
Murder (First & Second Degree Murder) | O.C.G.A. § 16-5-1; 18 U.S.C. § 1111 | Fraud | O.C.G.A. § 16-9-1; 18 U.S.C. § 1341 |
Manslaughter | O.C.G.A. § 16-5-2; 18 U.S.C. § 1112 | Embezzlement | O.C.G.A. § 16-8-4; 18 U.S.C. § 641 |
Armed Robbery | O.C.G.A. § 16-8-41; 18 U.S.C. § 2113 | Tax Evasion | 26 U.S.C. § 7201 |
Aggravated Assault | O.C.G.A. § 16-5-21; 18 U.S.C. § 113 | Drug Possession | O.C.G.A. § 16-13-30; 21 U.S.C. § 844 |
Rape | O.C.G.A. § 16-6-1 | White-Collar Crimes | Various federal and state fraud statutes such as |
Battery – Family Violence | O.C.G.A. § 16-5-23.1 | Identity Theft | O.C.G.A. § 16-9-121; 18 U.S.C. § 1028 |
Child Abuse | O.C.G.A. § 16-5-70; 18 U.S.C. § 3509 | Bribery | O.C.G.A. § 16-10-2; 18 U.S.C. § 201 |
Hate Crimes | O.C.G.A. § 17-10-17; 18 U.S.C. § 249 | Shoplifting | O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14 |
Assault and Battery | O.C.G.A. § 16-5-23; 18 U.S.C. § 113 | Vandalism | O.C.G.A. § 16-7-21 |
Terrorism | O.C.G.A. § 16-11-220; 18 U.S.C. § 2331 | Cybercrimes | O.C.G.A. § 16-9-93; 18 U.S.C. § 1030 |
Heinous crimes like sexual assault and aggravated assault are typically prosecuted aggressively. However, some non-violent crimes, can result in longer sentences than less serious violent crimes, for example major fraud cases, can result in longer sentences than a simple assault conviction
Understanding the Impact of Both Crime Types
How Violent Crimes Are Prosecuted
Due to the presence of physical force, violent crimes often lead to:
- Harsher prison sentences (including life for degree murder)
- Sentencing enhancements for repeat offenders
- Stricter parole conditions
The Severity of Some Non-Violent Crimes
Although non-violent crimes generally result in less severe penalties, some cases—such as corporate embezzlement—carry lengthy federal sentences.
For example:
- Financial fraud exceeding millions of dollars can result in decades in prison.
- However, a misdemeanorassault and battery charge may carry a lighter penalty than a large-scale fraud case.
The justice system continually adjusts policies to address crime statistics and sentencing disparities.
FAQs About Violent and Non-Violent Crimes
What is America’s Violent Crime Rate?
The Department of Justice (DOJ) and law enforcement agencies use data analysis and uniform crime reporting systems to track crime trends. According to the FBI’s 2022 Uniform Crime Reporting Data, the U.S. violent crime rate was 395.7 offenses per 100,000 people, showing a decrease in recent years.
What is America’s Non-Violent Crime Rate?
According to the FBI’s 2022 Uniform Crime Report, violent crime rates have declined in recent years, but white-collar crimes and cybercrimes have surged. Property crimes and other non-violent offenses remain more common than violent crimes. The FBI’s latest data reports over 6.2 million property crimes in 2022, compared to approximately 1.3 million violent crimes.
What Are Some U.S. Cities with a Low Violent Crime Rate?
According to FBI crime reports, the cities with the lowest violent crime rates include:
- Irvine, CA
- Naperville, IL
- Cary, NC
- Gilbert, AZ
What U.S. Cities Have the Highest Violent Crime Rates?
The most violent states and cities based on FBI data collection include:
- St. Louis, MO
- Baltimore, MD
- Detroit, MI
- Memphis, TN
What Percent of Violent Crimes Are Committed by Males?
According to FBI crime statistics, men commit approximately 80% of violent crimes, highlighting the prevalence of these offenses among certain demographics.
If You Are Facing Violent Crime Charges, Contact Garland, Samuel & Loeb
Whether you are accused of a violent crime or a non-violent offense, the consequences can be life-altering. A conviction can impact your freedom, criminal record, and future opportunities.
At Garland, Samuel & Loeb, our criminal defense lawyers have successfully handled serious felony andviolent crimecases for over 75 years. We fight aggressively to protect our clients using proven defense strategies, including self-defense arguments and challenges to law enforcement investigations.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Georgia, contact us immediately for a confidential consultation. Your defense starts now.
For more information on our services, visit our Serious Felonies Practice and Violent Crimes Practice pages.
