Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What defines Type II of "Discharge of firearm inside or at an occupied dwelling"?

1. Unlawful to shoot maliciously at any animal

2. Unlawful to throw any object against a dwelling

3. Unlawful to maliciously shoot or throw at an occupied building

4. Unlawful to discharge a firearm towards the ground

The correct answer is: Unlawful to maliciously shoot or throw at an occupied building

Type II of "Discharge of firearm inside or at an occupied dwelling" is characterized by the unlawful act of maliciously shooting or throwing something at an occupied building. This definition emphasizes the intentional aspect of the action, marking it as a serious offense due to the potential harm to individuals inside that dwelling. The malicious intent is a crucial component, as it distinguishes this act from accidental discharges or benign actions. Furthermore, the focus on an occupied building highlights the increased risk to life and safety, making such actions particularly egregious in the eyes of the law. In this context, the other choices do not specifically align with the definition of Type II. For instance, simply shooting at an animal or throwing any object against a dwelling does not capture the specific intention behind the malicious act described in the correct choice. Additionally, discharging a firearm towards the ground does not involve the direct targeting of an occupied dwelling and thus falls outside the scope of this particular type. This understanding is essential for recognizing the legal implications immediately related to firearm discharges in urban environments.