Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

Which of the following is not considered a crime against persons?

1. Kidnapping

2. Robbery

3. Burglary

4. Assault

The correct answer is: Burglary

Burglary is classified as a crime against property rather than a crime against persons. Crimes against persons typically involve direct harm or threat of harm to an individual, encompassing offenses such as assault, robbery, and kidnapping. In this context, kidnapping entails the unlawful taking and carrying away of a person against their will, representing a direct violation of personal freedom and safety. Robbery involves taking property from another through force or threat, which also directly impacts the individual’s sense of security. Assault refers to the intentional infliction of harm or the threat of harm against another person, clearly establishing a crime against an individual. In contrast, burglary involves entering a structure without permission with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft, inside. While it can lead to indirect harm to persons (particularly in cases of confrontation), its primary focus is on the unlawful entry and intent to commit a crime against property. Therefore, burglary does not directly concern the personal safety or well-being of individuals in the same way the other listed crimes do.