ASIS International (ASIS) Professional Certified Investigator Practice Exam

Which definition correctly describes Class A felonies?

1. They involve minor theft

2. They involve severe violent offenses

3. They include first-degree offenses

4. They are more severe than Class B felonies

The correct answer is: They involve severe violent offenses

Class A felonies are characterized by the seriousness of the offenses they encompass, which are typically severe violent crimes. These crimes can include murder, aggravated assault, and sexual assault, which usually result in significant bodily harm or threaten life. The classification as a Class A felony indicates that these offenses are among the most serious in the criminal justice system, often resulting in the harshest penalties, including lengthy prison sentences or life imprisonment. While it's true that Class A felonies are more severe than Class B felonies and can include first-degree offenses, the defining feature of a Class A felony is the level of violence and harm associated with those crimes. This distinction is important for understanding how offenses are categorized and the corresponding legal ramifications. Therefore, the correct definition highlights the severe nature of violent crimes that fall under Class A felony classifications.