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 Pennsylvania, robbery is defined under Title 18, Section 3701 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. The offense involves the taking of property from another person by force or threat of force, with the intent to permanently deprive the person of their property. Robbery is considered a felony in Pennsylvania, and the severity of the charges can range from a third-degree felony to a first-degree felony, depending on factors such as the infliction of bodily injury, the threat of serious bodily injury, or the commission of the crime during the course of committing a theft. Aggravated robbery, which is a more serious form of robbery, can occur if the perpetrator exhibits a deadly weapon, causes serious bodily injury, or puts the victim in fear of immediate serious bodily injury. The penalties for robbery in Pennsylvania can be severe, including lengthy prison sentences, with increased penalties for aggravated robbery due to the use of a weapon or the infliction of injury.