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 Delaware, robbery is defined under Title 11, Section 832 of the Delaware Code. The offense of robbery involves the taking of property from another person with the intent to deprive them of it, and it must occur in the presence of the person being robbed. The act must be accompanied by force, threat of force, violence, or putting the victim in fear of immediate bodily injury. Robbery is classified as a felony in Delaware, and the penalties can be severe, including substantial prison time. Aggravated robbery, which is a more serious form of robbery, occurs when the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon, causes serious bodily injury, or displays a firearm or represents by word or conduct that they are in control of a firearm. Aggravated robbery is also addressed in the Delaware Code and carries enhanced penalties, reflecting the increased danger and potential harm associated with the use of weapons or causing injury during the commission of the crime.