What Is Robbery, Armed Robbery, or Aggravated Robbery in Illinois?

 Posted on August 11, 2023 in Criminal Defense

In the state of Illinois, robbery is a serious crime that involves stealing property from another person through the use of force or threats to commit harm. There are different degrees of robbery depending on the circumstances and severity of the offense. By understanding what constitutes robbery, armed robbery, and aggravated robbery according to Illinois law and working with an experienced criminal defense attorney, people charged with these offenses can determine their best options for defending against a conviction.

Robbery

Robbery is defined as knowingly taking property from another individual by using force or threatening the imminent use of force. In order for an act to be classified as a robbery, it must involve both theft (the taking of another person’s property) and assault (force or threat). The value or type of property stolen does not necessarily matter; rather, it is the act itself that defines the crime. Robberies can occur in a variety of situations, such as street muggings, carjackings, or home invasions. In some cases, charges such as burglary or vehicular hijacking may also apply in addition to robbery.

The penalties for committing a robbery in Illinois vary based on several factors including any aggravating circumstances present during the commission of the crime. An offender charged with simple robbery may face Class 2 felony charges, which can result in imprisonment ranging from three to seven years along with hefty fines of up to $25,000.

Aggravated Robbery

In certain situations where additional factors escalate the seriousness of a robbery, it may be charged as aggravated robbery. Aggravating elements generally include:

• Verbal statements or other indications by an alleged offender that they are armed with a firearm or other dangerous weapon, regardless of whether they actually had such a weapon in their possession at the time of the alleged offense.

• The use of incapacitating drugs or substances administered to an alleged victim without their consent in order to allow the alleged offender to take money or property from their possession.

An aggravated robbery charge carries steeper penalties than simple robbery due to circumstances that may put others at risk of harm. A person accused of aggravated robbery may face Class 1 felony charges, which can result in imprisonment ranging from four to 15 years along with substantial fines of up to $25,000.

Armed Robbery

In cases where an offender uses a dangerous weapon when committing robbery, the criminal charges they face may be escalated armed robbery. The use of firearms such as guns and knives can significantly increase the severity level due to their potential lethality and capacity for harm.

A first-time offender who uses a weapon other than a firearm may face Class X felony charges for armed robbery. A Class X felony conviction can result in imprisonment ranging from six to 30 years. Carrying a firearm when armed robbery may result in 15 years being added to a person’s sentence. Discharging a firearm may result in an additional 20 years in prison, and if firing a gun resulted in someone being seriously injured or killed, 25 years may be added to a person’s sentence.

Contact a DuPage County Robbery Charges Attorney

If you have been accused of robbery or any other theft-related offenses in Illinois, it is crucial to seek legal representation immediately. The consequences of a conviction on these types of charges can greatly impact your future and freedom. At Law Office of Philip R. Nathe, our experienced Naperville robbery defense lawyer, will thoroughly review your case, analyze all available evidence, and work diligently towards achieving the best possible outcome for you. To set up a free consultation where you can discuss your case and learn about your options, contact us at  630-416-7600. Our team is ready to provide you with the legal support and guidance you need during this challenging time.