On the basis of gravity
1. Felonies
The more serious crimes are called felonies and are usually punished by death, forfeiture of property or rigorous imprisonment. 2. Misdemeanors The less serious are called misdemeanors and are usually punished by fines or simple imprisonment.
A person commits a felony is called a felon and who commits misdemeanor is called misdemeanant. It is very difficult to assume that felons are more dangerous and respond less positively to rehabilitative measures than misdemeanants. Sometimes a person can commit felony this week and commits a misdemeanor in second week.