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 Virginia, robbery is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-58 as the taking, with the intent to steal, of the property of another from his person or in his presence, against his will, by violence or intimidation. This crime is a felony in Virginia and is punishable by a prison term ranging from five years to life, depending on the circumstances of the crime. Aggravated robbery, which involves the use of a deadly weapon such as a gun or knife, or results in serious bodily injury, is treated with increased severity. The presence of a deadly weapon or the infliction of injury can lead to enhanced penalties and is considered during sentencing. Virginia does not have a separate statute for aggravated robbery, but these factors are aggravating circumstances that are taken into account under the general robbery statute.