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 Massachusetts, the crime of robbery is defined under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 19. Robbery is considered a felony and involves the use of force or threat of force to take property from another person against their will. The law distinguishes between unarmed and armed robbery. Unarmed robbery is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for any term of years up to life. If the robbery is committed while armed with a dangerous weapon, the crime escalates to armed robbery, which carries a more severe penalty, including a minimum sentence of five years for a first offense. The presence of a firearm during the robbery further increases the gravity of the offense, potentially leading to a charge of armed robbery with a firearm, which includes a mandatory minimum sentence. Additionally, if the robbery results in serious bodily injury or involves the theft of a controlled substance from a person lawfully in possession, the penalties can be even more severe. It is important for individuals charged with robbery in Massachusetts to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney to navigate the complexities of the legal system and the specific circumstances of their case.