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 Hawaii, robbery is defined under Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 708-840 and is considered a serious felony offense. The law states that a person commits robbery if, in the course of committing theft, they use force against the person of anyone present with the intent to overcome that person's physical resistance or physical power of resistance; or they threaten the imminent use of force against the person of anyone present with the intent to compel acquiescence to the taking of or escaping with the property. The crime escalates to first-degree robbery, which is a more severe form of felony, if it is committed with a dangerous instrument or if the offender intentionally or knowingly causes serious bodily injury to anyone who is not a participant in the crime. First-degree robbery is classified under Section 708-840(1)(b) and is punishable by an extended term of imprisonment, as provided in Section 706-661 and other applicable sentencing laws. The use of a deadly weapon such as a gun or knife, or causing great bodily injury, can indeed elevate the crime to aggravated robbery, leading to increased potential punishments.