The criminal offense of robbery generally involves the taking of property from another person, in the presence of the other person, by violence, intimidation, or threat of imminent bodily injury or death, and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. And in some states the crime of robbery can become the more serious crime of aggravated robbery (with increased potential punishments) if the person exhibits a deadly weapon such as a gun or knife, or causes great bodily injury or death, for example.

Robbery is a felony offense punishable by significant jail or prison time. Laws regarding robbery offenses are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Arizona, robbery is defined under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) §13-1902 as the taking of property from another person against their will by the use of force, threat, or intimidation with the intent to permanently deprive the person of that property. The crime becomes aggravated robbery under ARS §13-1903 if an accomplice is present during the commission of the robbery. Furthermore, if a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument is used or if serious physical injury occurs during the robbery, it escalates to armed robbery under ARS §13-1904, which is a more serious offense. Robbery in Arizona is classified as a felony, with the degree of felony and the associated penalties varying based on the specific circumstances of the crime, such as the use of a weapon and the presence of an accomplice. Penalties for robbery can include imprisonment, fines, restitution, and probation. Aggravated and armed robbery carry harsher penalties due to the increased danger and potential harm to victims.