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 Arkansas, robbery is defined under Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-12-102. It is considered a felony offense and involves the taking of property from another person with the purpose of depriving them of it, by employing violence, intimidation, or putting the individual in fear of immediate injury or death. Aggravated robbery, which is a more serious form of robbery, is outlined in Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-12-103. This offense occurs when a person commits robbery and they are armed with a deadly weapon, represent by word or conduct that they are, or they inflict or attempt to inflict death or serious physical injury upon another person. Aggravated robbery is also a felony and carries more severe penalties than simple robbery, including longer prison sentences. The specific penalties for robbery and aggravated robbery in Arkansas can vary based on the circumstances of the crime and the criminal history of the offender, but both are considered serious crimes with the potential for significant incarceration.