Robbery
in North Carolina
Robbery in North Carolina
In North Carolina, robbery is defined as the unlawful taking of personal property from the person or in the presence of another by the use or threatened use of force or violence. Robbery is considered a felony in North Carolina, and the severity of the offense can vary depending on the circumstances.
There are several degrees of robbery recognized under North Carolina law:
Common Law Robbery
This is the most basic form of robbery and involves taking property from the person or presence of another by the use or threat of force. It is classified as a Class G felony.
Armed Robbery
If a deadly weapon is used or displayed during the commission of a robbery, it is considered armed robbery. Armed robbery is a more serious offense and is classified as a Class D felony.
Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon:
This charge applies when the perpetrator possesses or uses a dangerous weapon (other than a firearm) during the robbery. It is also classified as a Class D felony.
Robbery with a Firearm
If a firearm is used or displayed during the commission of a robbery, it is considered robbery with a firearm. This offense carries more severe penalties and is classified as a Class D felony.
If a firearm is used or displayed during the commission of a robbery, it is considered robbery with a firearm. This offense carries more severe penalties and is classified as a Class D felony.
How is Burglary Different than Robbery in North Carolina?
Robbery and burglary are both criminal offenses that involve the unlawful taking of property, but they differ in several key aspects:
Robbery: Robbery is a crime against a person and involves the use of force, intimidation, or threat of force to take property directly from someone’s possession. It typically occurs in the presence of the victim. For example, if someone holds up a convenience store at gunpoint and demands money from the cashier, it would be considered robbery.
Burglary: Burglary, on the other hand, is a crime against property and involves unlawfully entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a theft or other felony inside. Unlike robbery, burglary does not necessarily involve confrontation with the property owner or occupants at the time of the crime. For instance, if someone breaks into a house while the occupants are away and steals valuables, it would be considered burglary.
In summary, robbery involves taking property directly from a person using force or threat, while burglary involves unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit a theft or other felony.