Common crimes prosecuted in North Carolina include the following.
1. Property Crimes: These include offenses such as burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft, and property damage. Property crimes are often committed with the intention of obtaining or damaging someone else’s property unlawfully. (Generally Class I misdemeanor – 120 days).
2. Drug-related Crimes: Wake County, like many other areas, in North Carolina has recently seen a significant increase in the number of drug-related offenses charged in the county. These includes drug possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking charges. The types of drugs involved can range from marijuana to controlled substances like opioids, methamphetamines, and cocaine. (Class I through C felonies).
3. Assault and Domestic Violence: These crimes involve physical harm or the threat of physical harm against another person, or a family member. Assault charges can range from simple assault to more severe offenses like assault with a deadly weapon, or assault on a female, or assault inflicting serious injury. Domestic violence crimes involve violence or threats between family or household members, or even roommates. (Class A1 misdemeanor – up to 150 days in jail).
4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense and can result in substantial punitive consequences. North Carolina’s impaired driving laws are strict. Penalties include license revocation, fines, and jail time. Repeat offenses may land a defendant in jail or prison. (General misdemeanor – up to 2 years in jail).
5. Fraud and White-Collar Crimes: These crimes involve deceit, deception, or fraudulent activities for financial gain. Examples include identity theft, credit card fraud, embezzlement, and forgery. White-collar crimes often occur in professional settings and can have significant financial implications. (Class H or Class C felony).
6. Underage possession or consumption of alcohol. (Class 2 misdemeanor).
7. Concealed weapons offenses. (Class 3 misdemeanor for 1st offense).
It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and the prevalence of specific crimes can change over time. Additionally, the severity and frequency of these crimes can vary depending on various social, economic, and demographic factors within the county.