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 Georgia, robbery is defined under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) §16-8-40. It is considered a felony and involves the taking of property from another person with the intent to commit theft. The act must occur directly from the person or in the presence of the person, and it must be done by use of force, intimidation, or sudden snatching. If a deadly weapon, such as a gun or knife, is used or the victim suffers bodily injury, the offense escalates to armed robbery, which is a more serious felony under O.C.G.A. §16-8-41. Armed robbery carries a potential punishment of ten to twenty years in prison, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty if certain aggravating circumstances are present. The specific circumstances of the crime, such as the use of a weapon or the infliction of injury, greatly influence the severity of the charges and the potential penalties upon conviction.