In North Carolina, crimes are classified as felonies or misdemeanors depending on their seriousness. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses than felonies. Misdemeanors by Class Misdemeanor offenses in North Carolina are categorized into four categories, with Class A1 being the most serious and Class 3 being the least serious. The maximum penalties and instances of crimes for each class are listed below. Class A1 Examples of Class A1 misdemeanors include: •child abuse •sexual battery •stalking Class A1 misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of 150 days in jail and a fine [...]

A man who was accused of spiking his wife’s drink with methamphetamines has been found not guilty. According to the District Attorney’s Office, Michael Kirkum was found not guilty of possession with intent to deliver methamphetamines, delivery of methamphetamines, distribution of a food containing a controlled substance and misdemeanor child abuse by a New Hanover County jury last week. The state dismissed a child abuse charge and a resisting a public officer charge. Source: https://www.wect.com/2022/06/21/man-accused-spiking-wifes-drink-with-meth-found-not-guilty/    

One of the most serious traffic offenses that a driver can be charged with in NC is passing a stopped school bus. Many people are not aware that NC General Statutes allow a driver to be charged even if a law enforcement officer does not personally observe the violation. School buses are equipped with recording equipment on both the inside and outside of the bus. The law requires a driver passing a stopped school bus with red lights flashing or stop sign deployed, to stop and not pass the vehicle [...]

What happens when a person conceals merchandise in a store, but does not leave? The difference is Shoplifting or Larceny. Shoplifting is charged when a person takes merchandise, and conceals the merchandise from view. This could be done by hiding the item under clothes or being placed inside a bag. The important thing to remember is that this offense occurs as soon as the item is concealed. The person charged with shoplifting does not have to leave the store or go past the line of cash registers. Once the person [...]