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 Minnesota, robbery is defined under Minnesota Statutes Section 609.24. The statute describes robbery as the taking of personal property from another person or in their presence, against their will, by using force or threats to inflict bodily harm. The crime is considered a felony and carries severe penalties. If the robbery is aggravated, meaning the perpetrator is armed with a dangerous weapon or inflicts bodily harm upon another, it is governed by Minnesota Statutes Section 609.245. Aggravated robbery is divided into two degrees: first-degree aggravated robbery involves the use of a dangerous weapon or the infliction of bodily harm, while second-degree aggravated robbery involves implying possession of a weapon without actual possession. Penalties for aggravated robbery are more severe than for simple robbery, with first-degree aggravated robbery carrying a potential sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $35,000, or both; and second-degree aggravated robbery carrying up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $30,000, or both. These statutes reflect Minnesota's approach to addressing the severity of robbery offenses and ensuring that the presence of a weapon or the occurrence of bodily harm during the commission of the crime results in enhanced charges and penalties.