Differentiate between "felony" and "misdemeanor".

The distinction between "felony" and "misdemeanor" centers on the severity of the offenses as well as the associated penalties. A felony is classified as a more serious crime that is typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the crime. This higher degree of severity reflects the potential harm to society or individuals caused by the crime.

In contrast, a misdemeanor represents a less serious offense, usually resulting in lighter penalties such as fines or imprisonment for one year or less. Misdemeanors might include offenses like petty theft or minor drug possession, which do not pose the same level of threat to public safety as felonies.

By understanding this differentiation, it becomes clear that the answer captures the essence of the legal classifications and their implications for penalties, providing critical insight for students studying professional policing. The other options do not accurately reflect the primary distinction based on the severity and the corresponding consequences of the crimes.