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 Wisconsin, robbery is defined under Wisconsin Statutes Section 943.32. The law characterizes robbery as the taking of property from a person or in their presence, against their will, by use of force, threat of force, or intimidation. The intent must be to permanently deprive the owner of the property. Robbery is classified as a Class E felony, which can result in a fine of up to $50,000, imprisonment for up to 15 years, or both. However, if the robbery is aggravated, meaning the perpetrator is armed with a dangerous weapon, threatens to use a weapon, or uses force likely to cause bodily harm, the offense is elevated to a Class C felony under the same statute. This can lead to increased penalties, including a fine of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 40 years, or both. The presence of a weapon or the infliction of great bodily harm significantly enhances the severity of the crime and the potential punishment.