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 Oregon, robbery is defined under ORS 164.395, and it is considered a felony offense. The basic definition aligns with the general description of robbery involving the use of violence, intimidation, or threat to take property directly from a person with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Oregon law further distinguishes between degrees of robbery. Robbery in the third degree is the least severe form, while robbery in the first degree, as defined under ORS 164.415, is the most serious and is classified as aggravated robbery. Aggravated robbery occurs when the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon, uses or attempts to use the weapon, or causes serious physical injury to any person during the crime. The penalties for robbery in Oregon vary with the degree of the offense, with aggravated robbery carrying the harshest penalties, including the possibility of significant prison time.