OFFENSE CLASSIFICATIONS

FELONIES

• Class 1 – Most serious offenses; eligible for life imprisonment or death penalty
• Class 2–6 – Graduated severity with decreasing sentencing exposure

MISDEMEANORS

• Class 1–3 – Lower-level criminal offenses with limited incarceration

PREPARATORY OFFENSES

• Attempt – One class lower than original offense
• Accessory – Same class as original offense
• Conspiracy – Two classes lower unless Class 1 felony

COMMON OFFENSE CATEGORIES

• Homicide
• Assault
• Kidnapping
• Robbery & Theft
• Trespassing & Criminal Damage
• Public Order Offenses
• Weapons Offenses
• Controlled Dangerous Substances
• Court & Judicial Offenses
• Escape & Flight
• Organized Crime & Terrorism
• Vehicle & Traffic Violations

CHARGING REQUIREMENTS

All charges must:
• Match statutory language exactly
• Be supported by probable cause
• Be classified correctly
• Include applicable enhancements
• Be articulated clearly in reports and warrants

Improper charge selection may result in dismissal or amendment by the court.

DEATH PENALTY CASES

Applicable only to:
• First Degree Murder
• Acts of Terrorism

Requires:
• Defendant at least 18 years of age
• Judicial hearing
• Proof of aggravating circumstances beyond a reasonable doubt

INTERNAL USE NOTICE

These pages are for LSCSO operational reference only. Statutory interpretation, prosecutorial discretion, and judicial authority always supersede reference material.