This blog post will provide an overview of the different types of robbery crimes in Illinois. The following sections will provide definitions and penalties for standard robbery, aggravated robbery, and armed robbery.
Definition of Robbery in Illinois
As underlined in 720 ILCS 5/18-1, robbery is a theft crime. If the perpetrator steals another person’s property using force or threats of force, then it becomes a robbery, though it is important to note that robbery does not apply to the theft of cars or other vehicles. There are separate laws and penalties for car theft.
Penalties for Robbery in Illinois
Under 720 ILCS 5/18-1, robbery is generally a Class 2 felony in Illinois. A Class 2 felony is punishable by up to 84 months in jail, 48 months of probation, and $25,000 in fines.
Under certain circumstances, such as robbery committed at a school or church, robbery can become a Class 1 felony in Illinois. A Class 1 felony for robbery is punishable by up to 15 years in jail, 48 months of probation, and $25,000 in fines.
Definition of Aggravated Robbery in Illinois
As established in 720 ILCS 5/18-1, there are two types of aggravated robbery. If the perpetrator indicates that he or she is in possession of a dangerous weapon, even if the robber does not actually have such a weapon, then it is aggravated robbery. It is also aggravated robbery if the perpetrator impairs the victim by injecting or delivering a controlled substance.
Penalties for Aggravated Robbery in Illinois
Under 720 ILCS 5/18-1, aggravated robbery is a Class 1 felony in Illinois. A Class 1 felony for aggravated robbery is punishable by up to 15 years in jail, 48 months of probation, and $25,000 in fines.
Definition of Armed Robbery in Illinois
As detailed in 720 ILCS 5/18-2, armed robbery is any type of robbery committed with a firearm or other dangerous weapon. Armed robbery applies whether or not the perpetrator uses the dangerous weapon during the crime. So long as the perpetrator shows the dangerous weapon, it is enough to qualify as armed robbery. Heightened penalties apply if the perpetrator uses a dangerous weapon to inflict harm to a victim.
Penalties for Armed Robbery in Illinois
Under 720 ILCS 5/18-2, armed robbery is a Class X felony in Illinois. A Class X felony for armed robbery is punishable by up to 30 years in jail and $25,000 in fines, without the possibility of parole or probation. Additionally, certain types of armed robbery can result in lifetime imprisonment.
Do You Need Legal Help?
No matter what the criminal offense, all criminal 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.
(image courtesy of Rene Bohmer)