How is battery defined in the material?

• A. Actually and intentionally touched or struck the victim against will or intentionally caused GBI
• B. Verbal threat only
• C. Public nuisance
• D. Unlawful use of a motor vehicle

Answer: (A)

Battery is about intentional physical contact or harm to someone without their consent. The definition shown—actually and intentionally touching or striking the victim against their will or intentionally causing bodily harm—fits this idea: there must be purposeful contact or harm, not just words or other actions. Verbal threats alone are assault, not battery, because there’s no physical contact. Public nuisance concerns the rights of the community, not personal contact. Unlawful use of a motor vehicle refers to taking or using a vehicle without permission, a different crime entirely. If the harm is great bodily harm, that would be aggravated battery, a separate, more serious offense, but the basic battery definition centers on intentional contact or bodily harm.