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 Florida, robbery is defined under Florida Statutes Section 812.13 as the taking of money or other property which may be the subject of larceny from the person or custody of another, with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the person or the owner of the money or other property, when in the course of the taking there is the use of force, violence, assault, or putting in fear. If in the course of committing the robbery the offender carries a weapon, then the robbery is classified as a first-degree felony, commonly referred to as 'armed robbery.' If the offender carries a firearm or other deadly weapon, it can further enhance the penalties, potentially leading to life imprisonment. Without a weapon, robbery is typically a second-degree felony. Aggravated robbery, involving the display of a weapon or causing serious bodily injury, carries more severe penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines. The specific circumstances of the crime, such as the use of a weapon or the degree of injury inflicted, will significantly influence the severity of the charges and the potential punishment.