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 Maryland, robbery is defined under Maryland Criminal Law Code Ann. § 3-402 as the taking and carrying away of property from someone by force or threat of force. The law considers robbery a felony, which can result in serious penalties including imprisonment. If the robbery involves the use of a dangerous weapon, such as a gun or knife, or results in serious bodily harm, it can be elevated to armed robbery or robbery with a dangerous weapon, as per Maryland Criminal Law Code Ann. § 3-403. This is considered aggravated robbery and carries even harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences. The specific circumstances of the crime, such as the use of a weapon or the infliction of injury, will determine the degree of the charge and the severity of the potential punishment. Sentencing can vary widely but typically includes significant jail time, with the possibility of sentences ranging from several years to life imprisonment for the most serious offenses.