KembaraXtra - Legal Terms - Robbery

Robbery is the offence of using force or threatening force in order to commit theft. The force may be used immediately before the theft or during the course of it. The offence is created by section 8 of the Theft Act 1968. Robbery combines theft with violence or threatened violence. It is therefore treated as a very serious offence.

The force must be directed against a person. Force against property alone is not sufficient for robbery. The amount of force required is a question of fact for the jury. Even relatively slight force may be enough in some circumstances. For example, nudging someone so that they lose balance may qualify.

A person may commit robbery even if the victim is not actually frightened. It is enough that the defendant threatens the use of force in order to steal. The law focuses on the defendant’s conduct and intention. The threat must be connected with the theft. Violence used for another purpose may not amount to robbery.

Robbery requires proof of theft. This means the prosecution must establish dishonesty, appropriation, property, belonging to another, and intention permanently to deprive. The additional element is force or threatened force. Both elements must be proved. Without theft, there can be no robbery.

Robbery carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Assault with intent to rob is also punishable severely. Sentencing depends on factors such as weapons, injury, planning, and vulnerability of the victim. Street robberies, home invasions, and armed robberies are treated particularly seriously. Robbery remains one of the most grave offences against property and personal security.