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 Kentucky, robbery is defined under Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) Chapter 515. The state differentiates between first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree robbery. First-degree robbery, the most serious form, occurs when a person commits robbery and in the course of doing so: (1) causes physical injury to any person who is not a participant in the crime; (2) uses or threatens the immediate use of a dangerous instrument; or (3) is armed with a deadly weapon or uses or threatens the immediate use of a deadly weapon. First-degree robbery is a Class B felony. Second-degree robbery does not involve the use of a deadly weapon or serious physical injury but still involves physical force or threat thereof and is a Class C felony. Third-degree robbery involves the use of force or threat in committing a theft and is a Class D felony. Aggravating factors, such as the use of a deadly weapon or causing serious injury, can elevate the severity of the robbery charge and increase potential punishments, including longer prison sentences.