Robbery vs Burglary

Robbery vs Burglary

Robbery is the taking or attempting to take something of value from another person by use of force, threats or intimidation. The victim is present during a robbery. There are varying degrees of robbery charges in New York State; First, second and third. The degree is based on the extent of force used or threatened, the type of “weapon” used or threatened with, and how many people were involved in the robbery. It should be noted here that even “fake” weapons such as a toy gun, would be considered the same use of force as a real gun. New York Penal Code 160.10 provides that “A  person  is  guilty of robbery in the second degree when he forcibly  steals property and when:…(b)  Displays  what  <strong>appears</strong> to be a pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun,  machine gun or other firearm; or…” So it is based on the victims perception of the weapon, and if it appears to be real regardless whether it is actually capable of firing.

Burglary, by contrast, is when a person enters a building or a structure with the intent to commit a crime. Burglary also has three degrees which vary based on weapons, injury and whether there was force used to enter the premises such as breaking a window or something of that nature. The victim does not need to be present for a burglary to occur. It’s important to note two things ~ to enter doesn’t require actually breaking in, and includes even an object used to extend your own reach.

New York State takes both of the above crimes extremely seriously. If you have been charged with Robbery or Burglary in the State of New York, it’s imperative that you seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney. If you should have any questions about a particular matter and your charges are in Onondaga, Oneida, Madison, or Jefferson County, don’t hesitate to call us at 315-701-2939 or find us on the web at bestsyracuselawyers.com for a free initial consultation.

See related articles:

How do I remove a criminal charge from my record?

What you should know about Probable Cause

Self-defense or Crime? The Justification defense

Felony and Guns

What is Harassment?

New York Gun Laws

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