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 Louisiana (LA), robbery is defined under the Louisiana Revised Statutes, specifically in Title 14:64. Robbery is considered the theft of anything of value from a person or in the immediate control of another, by use of force or intimidation, but not necessarily with a deadly weapon. The crime is a felony and carries severe penalties. When a deadly weapon, such as a gun or knife, is used, the offense escalates to armed robbery, as per Title 14:64.3, which is a more serious felony with even harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences. Aggravated robbery, which involves the taking of property with the likelihood of causing serious bodily harm, is also recognized under Louisiana law in Title 14:64.4 and carries enhanced penalties. The specific circumstances of the robbery, such as the use of a weapon or the infliction of injury, will determine the exact charges and potential sentences under Louisiana's criminal statutes.