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Robbery

Charges & Offenses
Pending Legal ReviewNew York · 2026-06-11

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Plain-English Meaning

Taking property from another person by using or threatening force. Robbery is larceny plus force or intimidation. It is always a felony in New York.

Legal Context

N.Y. Penal Law §§ 160.05–160.15 define robbery in three degrees, all felonies. Robbery in the Third Degree (§ 160.05, D felony) is forcible stealing. Robbery in the Second Degree (§ 160.10, C felony) involves aided by another, physical injury to a non-participant, or display of what appears to be a firearm. Robbery in the First Degree (§ 160.15, B felony) involves an actual deadly weapon, serious physical injury, or armed display.

Real-Life Example

When Marcus grabbed a woman's purse and shoved her to the ground, he was charged with Robbery in the Third Degree — he used force to take property. Had he displayed a gun, the charge would have been elevated to Robbery in the Second Degree.

Related Statutes

N.Y. Penal Law §§ 160.05–160.15

Related Terms

LarcenyBurglaryAssaultDangerous WeaponFelony

Source

Based on N.Y. Penal Law §§ 160.05–160.15. Original B-Legal plain-language explanation.

N.Y. Penal Law §§ 160.05–160.15

robberyforcible stealingfelonyweaponproperty crime
Legal Information Only — Not Legal Advice. The content provided by B-Legal is general legal information sourced from publicly available NYC and NYS law. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed attorney before taking any legal action. A lawyer must confirm representation.

Definitions are simplified for education. Legal meanings vary by jurisdiction, context, and case facts. This definition is original B-Legal content and is not affiliated with or derived from any proprietary legal dictionary.