DEGIANNIE L FREEMAN

First degree murder occurs in five situations: (1) a premeditated and intentional killing; (2) a killing during the commission of certain dangerous felonies like robbery, burglary, kidnapping, or child abuse; (3) a killing caused by throwing or discharging a bomb or destructive device; (4) a killing during an act of terrorism; or (5) a killing during rape or aggravated rape. A conviction results in death, life without parole, or life imprisonment—except for those under 18 at the time of the offense, who cannot receive the death penalty.

Penalty: Violation

Second-degree murder is intentionally killing another person, or killing someone through unlawful distribution of Schedule I or Schedule II drugs (or fentanyl/carfentanil) when the drug directly causes the death. Punishment ranges from 15 to 60 years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines, with enhanced sentences if the victim is a minor or if the defendant committed multiple acts of domestic abuse against the same victim showing a pattern of conduct likely to cause death.

Penalty: Class A felony; 15-60 years; fine up to $50,000

It is illegal to knowingly manufacture, deliver, sell, or possess with intent to deliver a controlled substance. This is typically a Class E felony punishable by 1 to 6 years in prison and a fine up to $3,000, but the penalty increases to a Class A, B, C, or D felony depending on the type of drug and amount involved.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

It is illegal to alter, destroy, hide, or create fake records, documents, or physical evidence when you know an investigation or court proceeding is happening, if you intend to affect the evidence or the outcome of the case. A conviction is a Class C felony punishable by 3-15 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines.

Penalty: Class C felony; 3-15 years; fine up to $10,000