Which of the following is NOT part of the MRS BAKER list of inherently dangerous felonies?

• A. Mayhem/Maiming
• B. Rape
• C. Burglary
• D. Perjury

Answer: (D)

Inherently dangerous felonies are crimes that by their very nature create a high risk of death or serious bodily harm during their commission, which is why they’re tied to the felony-murder concept in many jurisdictions. The offenses typically cited as inherently dangerous involve violence or the potential for serious harm. Mayhem or maiming clearly fits this idea because it directly involves causing serious injury. Rape also involves violent harm to a person. Burglary, while it is a property crime, is included in some lists because the unlawful entry can lead to dangerous confrontations or violent outcomes during the crime. Perjury, on the other hand, is lying under oath; it does not involve violence or an inherent risk of harm to others, so it isn’t part of the inherently dangerous felonies list. That’s why Perjury is the correct choice here.