A criminal is someone who breaks the law or engages in illegal activity. The word is also used as an adjective to describe something involved in or related to crime, for example ‘criminal deception’ means obtaining money or goods through false representation.
Crimes are a serious violation of the laws of a country, and the resulting punishments are typically severe. However, there are also lesser crimes known as civil infractions or citations which are punishable by fine, but do not involve imprisonment. These include things like jaywalking, littering and traffic violations.
The decision to charge or not to charge a person with a crime is often made by a prosecuting attorney who considers a variety of factors, including the strength of evidence, the severity of the crime and the defendant’s previous criminal record. The crime of murder, for example, requires a degree of premeditation that is usually higher than other offenses such as theft or fraud.
Investigating and reporting on a criminal case can be very exciting, but it is vital to remember that you are writing about real people and their lives. You should always maintain the highest standards of respect and factual integrity. If possible, you should interview primary sources such as police officers and family members of victims or perpetrators. This will help you to add depth and dimension to your story. It is also a good idea to visit the places where criminals are being held or are working, such as a prison or a police station.
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