Robbery is the type of theft crime that most people think of when they hear the term “robbery.” It’s a serious criminal offense that falls in the category of violent crimes. Generally, the basic elements of a robbery charge involve taking property from someone else’s possession with force or fear and the intent to permanently deprive the victim of their property. Robbery is often described in state law as a first or second degree felony and it can count as one of the crimes that triggers your state’s three strikes law.
The specific details of the crime depend on a lot of things. Some states require that the defendant actually carry away or steal property in order to be charged with a robbery. Other states, such as New York, define robbery differently. The definition of robbery in New York includes not only the taking but also the use of force to overcome resistance to that taking.
Retailers such as grocery stores, drugstores, liquor or gas stations and all-night restaurants or delicatessens are frequent targets for robbery. Stores that have a large amount of cash on hand are often targeted. Some robberies involve a single bandit who attacks the cash register while others have several holdup people working together.
When you are robbed, remain calm and cooperate. Be sure to note anything that might help the police catch the suspect later on. For example, try to remember the suspect’s race, height and other physical characteristics. If they escape in a car, make a note of the vehicle’s make and model and license plate number.