Emily Garcia and Susan Mathe
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crime is doing something illegal — such as destroying someone
else’s property or using illicit drugs — that is punishable by a
fine and/or imprisonment.
Levels of Crime:
Felonies are the most serious and can result in a fine and/or
commitment to state prison for more than a year. In addition,
certain felony convictions can lead
to life in prison without the possibility of parole or even the
death penalty.
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by a fine
and/or up to one year of jail time.
Infractions usually do not involve any time in jail, but do require
a court appearance and/or payment of a fine. If charged with an
infraction, you are not entitled to a jury trial or an attorney at
state expense. Some traffic violations are infractions.
IGNORANCE OF
LAW IS NOT AN
EXCUSE
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What happens if I
am arrested?
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You will be searched,
handcuffed and taken to a
police station. You also will be
advised of your rights. You will
have the opportunity of a
phone call. Practice caution
while speaking and acting,
nothing while under arrest is
private.
Once you have identified
yourself, you can refuse to
discuss your case with police.
Law enforcement officers
cannot threaten you or force
you into answering questions.
Nor can they offer you leniency
in exchange for any written or
oral statements.
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What happens after I
have been arrested
and booked?
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Typically, you would
be taken to court for
an “initial
appearance” within
24 hours. If you were
arrested on a
weekend; however,
you might have to
wait until Monday
morning when court
opens.
To lie under oath is
itself a crime.
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Driver’s license may be denied
Prevent a person from being
accepted by the college or
university
A person who has been convicted
of a crime may be prevented from
entering the armed forces or, if
accepted, may not be given a
com- mission or a security
clearance.
Felon does not have the right to
vote.
● Many businesses require employees
to be bonded. An insurance company
usually refuses to bond anyone who
has been convicted of a felony.
● Some employment may be closed to
those convicted of crimes or those
who, while minors, committed
offenses which would be considered
crimes if committed by an adult.
● If you are not a citizen and you are
convicted of violating any law or
regulation of a state, the United States
or a foreign country, you could be
deported and prohibited from
returning to this country. Also, law
enforcement agencies are required to
notify United States Immigration
Services regarding the arrest of
anyone who is not a citizen
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Transporting a stolen vehicle across state
lines. Mailing matter that is obscene or in
cites crime.
Transporting or importing narcotics.
Forgery of government checks.
Possession of stolen mail and items — such
as credit cards — which have been stolen
from the mail.
Robbery or burglary of a bank or savings and
loan institution