Robbery - A Serious Crime

Robbery differs from simple theft in that not only is property taken from the victim, but violence has also been threatened or used by the perpetrator during this act. Robbery is considered a felony in Wisconsin, although the classification depends on the type of robbery that has occurred.

Being robbed is a frightening and sometimes traumatizing experience. Having your possessions stripped from your ownership is angering, but when someone threatens or uses violence against you, for whatever reason, the psychological effects are lasting. If you are harmed in some way as a result of a violent act, the physical and emotional scars can take a very long time to heal. Often times, those who have been victims of robbery seek justice right away by approaching law enforcement offers, who pursue the offender vigilantly since a felony has been committed.

Classifying Robbery

There are several types of robbery that one can commit. Depending on what type of act has been performed, the felony classification, and therefore the penalty, varies.

· Simple Robbery: Robbery without the accompanying use of a weapon

· Armed Robbery: Robbery with the use of a weapon

· Aggravated Robbery: Robbery with the use of a deadly weapon, such as a gun

Simple robbery is termed as a Class E felony in Wisconsin, meaning that the criminal is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of $50,000. Armed or aggravated robbery is defined as a Class C felony in Wisconsin, which means that the violator is subject to a sentence of up to 40 years in prison and/or a fine of $100,000. Obviously, these are crimes for which one would not wish to be charged.

Where Robbery Can Occur

An individual or group of individuals can be robbed just about anywhere. Individuals are commonly "mugged," which is also known as "highway robbery." This means that the person has been robbed in a public area, such as street, sidewalk, or parking garage. Individuals also are typically the victims of carjacking, in which the thief steals the victim's car or vehicle.

Common business places that are often the targets of robbery are banks and financial institutions, although any store that contains desirable goods or cash is liable to be robbed, as well.

Contact Us

For more information on robbery, or to learn what you can do if you have been charged with robbery, please visit http://www.kohlerandhart.com

Joseph Devine

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Devine