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 Maine, robbery is defined under Title 17-A, Chapter 27 of the Maine Criminal Code. The basic offense of robbery is considered a Class A crime if the perpetrator, in committing theft, intentionally or knowingly inflicts bodily injury upon someone, is armed with a dangerous weapon, or uses force against any person who is not a participant in the crime. Aggravated robbery, which is a more serious form of robbery, occurs when the perpetrator intentionally or knowingly causes serious bodily injury to any person who is not a participant in the crime. Aggravated robbery is also classified as a Class A crime, which is the most serious level of offense under Maine law, carrying potential penalties of up to 30 years in prison and significant fines. The presence of a deadly weapon such as a gun or knife during the commission of a robbery can elevate the severity of the charge to aggravated robbery, leading to harsher potential punishments.