Robbery is a serious crime that can lead to long prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. But like any offense, different circumstances and variables can contribute to a robbery. This is why Pennsylvania has different criminal charges for robbery offenses.
This blog will break down the basics of the state’s robbery law by discussing each different type of robbery charge and the potential penalties an offender could face.
Robbery in the third degree
Suppose a person physically takes or removes property from the person of another with minimal force and without causing any bodily injury. In that case, their robbery offense is a felony of the third degree.
On conviction for robbery in the third degree, a person faces up to seven years of prison time and $2,500 in fines.
Robbery in the second degree
If a person inflicts bodily injury or threatens to inflict bodily injury to take another’s property, the offense is robbery in the second degree. Robbery also becomes a felony of the second degree if the person takes the money of a financial institution (such as a bank).
A conviction for this offense leads to imprisonment of up to 10 years and $25,000 in fines.
Robbery in the first degree
This is the highest criminal degree for a robbery offense. A person faces this charge if their robbery offense inflicts serious bodily injury to another, or if they made a threat to inflict serious bodily harm to another.
If the object of a robbery is a controlled substance, such as heroin, the offense is immediately upgraded to a felony of the first degree. This is regardless of the amount of violence the offender used against another person. Certain controlled substances are also prescription medications, like Adderall and Ritalin. Robbery involving these medications is also a first-degree felony.
A conviction for robbery in the first degree carries 20 years of prison and $25,000 in fines.
If you’re facing robbery charges in Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand your rights and options. The criminal justice system can be complex and overwhelming, and a skilled legal professional can help you navigate the process and protect your future.
