Legal Definitions - Robbery

Robbery is a serious crime that involves illegally taking someone's property directly from them, or from their immediate presence, by using violence, threats, or intimidation.

Here are some examples to illustrate this legal term:

• Example 1: Physical Force

  A person is walking down a busy street, talking on their smartphone. Another individual suddenly runs up, shoves them forcefully to the side, snatches the phone directly from their hand, and flees the scene.

  Explanation: This scenario illustrates robbery because the smartphone (property) was unlawfully taken from the victim's person, and physical force (the shove) was used to overcome resistance and complete the taking.

• Example 2: Threat of Violence

  A lone cashier is working late at a gas station. A masked individual enters, approaches the counter, and quietly says, "Give me all the money in the register, or someone's going to get hurt," while subtly gesturing towards what appears to be a weapon concealed under their jacket. Fearing for their safety, the cashier hands over the cash.

  Explanation: This is robbery because the money (property) was unlawfully taken from the cashier's immediate control (the register, considered within their presence) through the use of a direct threat of violence, which instilled fear and compelled compliance.

• Example 3: Intimidation and Fear

  While waiting at a bus stop, a student is approached by a group of three individuals. One steps very close, blocking the student's path, while another demands, "Hand over your headphones and wallet, now." The group's menacing posture and the implicit threat of harm make the student feel trapped and afraid, leading them to surrender their belongings.

  Explanation: This situation constitutes robbery because the headphones and wallet (property) were unlawfully taken directly from the student's person through intimidation and the creation of fear, which served as the "force" compelling the victim to give up their possessions.