1.1 what is crime

definition of crime

1. Crime

2. What is Crime? Braindump

3. Define: crime An act or omission committed against the community at large that is punishable by the state Omission – failure to act, neglecting to do something Community at large – most of the community/most of society The state – a government and the people that it governs

4. Crimes vary from nation to nation (state to state or jurisdiction to jurisdiction), because they reflect the values of each society. What is considered a crime can be influenced by: Values and morals Religion Culture History Legal traditions

5. Law Reform Sometimes, archaic, outdated crimes remain, despite societal changes – there’s no automatic process to remove laws which are no longer necessary. ( Eg : homosexuality) Sometimes, new crimes must be created to accommodate changes in society. ( Eg : computer crime)

6. Features of criminal law To protect society (crime is “offence against society”) Crimes against a person, the state, and/or property The State takes action against the offender The Police make the decision to prosecute in court Burden of Proof is: Beyond a Reasonable Doubt Aim is: to protect the community & provide sanctions