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 Texas, robbery is defined under the Texas Penal Code Section 29.02. It is considered a second-degree felony and involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, or intentionally or knowingly threatening or placing another person in fear of imminent bodily injury or death while committing theft. The crime escalates to aggravated robbery, as per Section 29.03 of the Penal Code, if the individual uses or exhibits a deadly weapon, causes serious bodily injury to another, or commits the offense against a person who is disabled or who is 65 years of age or older. Aggravated robbery is a first-degree felony in Texas. Both offenses carry severe penalties, with robbery punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, and aggravated robbery punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.