What defines a felony under the penal code?

A felony is specifically defined as a serious crime that is punishable by death or imprisonment in a state or federal penitentiary. This distinction is critical because felonies are generally considered more severe than misdemeanors or infractions, which typically carry lesser penalties, such as fines or jail time in local facilities.

In the context of the options provided, option B directly aligns with the legal definition of a felony. It highlights both potential penalties: capital punishment and confinement in a penitentiary, which underscores the gravity of felonies. Understanding this categorization is essential for recognizing the implications of a felony conviction, such as the loss of certain rights, increased sentencing severity, and long-term impacts on an individual’s life.

The other choices do not meet the criteria for defining a felony. For example, crimes punishable solely by fines do not rise to the level of felonies, and minor thefts that only involve local jail time typically fall under misdemeanor classifications. Similarly, violations of local ordinances usually pertain to infractions, which are not considered felonies. Recognizing these distinctions is vital for grasping the structure of criminal offenses in the penal code.