The Illinois Criminal Code includes prohibitions against many types of theft crimes, including three kinds of robbery. In all respects, robbery must involve the use of force or the imminent threat of force. Though the corresponding penalties fluctuate based on whether the offender committed robbery, aggravated robbery, or armed robbery.
Robbery
720 ILCS 5/18-1 establishes the Illinois laws against and penalties for robbery. Under Illinois law, a person commits robbery if they knowingly take property:
- From the person or presence of the victim; and
- Using force or the imminent threat of force.
There is an exception to robbery laws. Section 18-1 does not apply to the theft of motor vehicles. Theft crimes involving motor vehicles are governed by separate sections of the Illinois Criminal Code.
Under Section 18-1, robbery is typically a Class 2 felony. If convicted for this class of felony, the offender can face the following penalties:
- Sentencing Range: Between three and seven years in prison;
- Extended Term: Between seven and 14 years in prison;
- Criminal Fines: Up to $25,000; and
- Probation: Up to 48 months.
Aggravated Robbery
Section 18-1 also provides the Illinois laws against and penalties for aggravated robbery. Under Illinois law, a standard robbery crime becomes armed robbery if the offender:
- Indicates that they are in possession of a dangerous weapon or a firearm; or
- Forces, threatens, or deceives the victim into consuming a controlled substance.
Under Section 18-1, aggravated robbery is normally a Class 1 felony. If convicted for this class of felony, the offender can face the following penalties:
- Sentencing Range: Between four and 15 years in prison;
- Extended Term: Between 15 and 30 years in prison;
- Criminal Fines: Up to $25,000; and
- Probation: Up to 48 months.
Armed Robbery
720 ILCS 5/18-2 establishes the Illinois laws against and penalties for robbery. Under Illinois law, a standard robbery crime becomes armed robbery if the offender:
- Possessed a dangerous weapon, except for a firearm, during the offense;
- Possessed a firearm during the offense;
- Discharged a firearm during the offense; or
- Caused serious injury, disability, disfigurement, or death by discharging a firearm during the offense.
Under Section 18-2, armed robbery is usually a Class X felony. If convicted for this class of felony, the offender can face the following penalties:
- Sentencing Range: Between six and 30 years in prison;
- Extended Term: Between 30 and 60 years in prison;
- Criminal Fines: Up to $25,000; and
- Probation: Not available for Class X felonies.
Do You Need Legal Help?
No matter what the criminal offense, all charges are serious. A sound strategy and an aggressive defense are essential for a positive outcome. To protect your rights in such situations, it is highly advisable to retain legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Prior Law Firm in Bloomington, Illinois, has proven experience in matters of criminal defense. If you need legal help with criminal defense, contact us today for a free consultation. You can reach The Prior Law Firm by phone at (309) 827-4300, email at johnprior@thepriorlawfirm.com or by completing an online form.