What is aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon?


Quick Answer

Aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon is a crime that begins with theft or robbery. The crime escalates to aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon when the perpetrator uses a weapon capable of causing significant bodily harm, has an accomplice or if serious physical harm is inflicted upon the victim of the crime.

Continue Reading

Full Answer

The definition of aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon can vary by state. For example, in Illinois, just the threat of bodily harm causes the perpetrator to be charged with the crime. Even if the perpetrator uses a fake gun or has no actual weapon on him, the threat causes him to be charged with aggravated robbery.

Robbery laws are typically handled in state courts, but there are three robbery statutes at the federal level, which include the Federal Bank Robbery Act, the Hobbs Act, and the theft of stealing government property from the U.S. Post Office.

The Federal Bank Robbery Act is a crime involving robbing any bank, with additional penalties for using deadly weapons. The Hobbs Act, designed particularly for cases involving organized crime, punishes perpetrators who steal by threatening or actually using force, violence or fear.

Punishments for aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon vary depending on the state and the circumstances. Prosecutors consider what type of weapon was used, how it was used, whether an accomplice was involved and how severely the victim was harmed.

Learn more about Crime

Related Questions