Robbery: penalties in each state and country
Taking property from a person by force or by threatening force. Armed robbery and robbery causing injury are usually more serious degrees.
What to look for: Most states have degrees, and the most serious (armed) degree can carry many times the basic term.
These are statutory ranges for a first offence, from the least to the most the law allows. A court decides the actual sentence in each case. Not legal advice.
34 states covered so far
Alabama
1 year and 1 day to 10 years (third degree) up to life or 99 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the third degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- 1 year and 1 day
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $15,000, or twice the gain or loss
Robbery in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $30,000, or twice the gain or loss
Robbery in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment or up to 99 years
- Fine
- Up to $60,000, or twice the gain or loss
Alaska
Up to 10 years (second degree) up to 20 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $100,000
Presumptive range for a first felony conviction: 1 to 3 years (higher in some listed circumstances). The court may adjust it under AS 12.55.155 to 12.55.175.
Robbery in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $250,000
Presumptive range for a first felony conviction: 4 to 7 years (7 to 11 years if a firearm or dangerous instrument was used or serious physical injury or death was caused). The court may adjust it under AS 12.55.155 to 12.55.175.
Arizona
1 to 3.75 years (robbery) up to 3 to 12.5 years (armed robbery)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 3.75 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $150,000
A first offence: usual term 2.5 years, between 1.5 and 3 years; 1 year if mitigated and 3.75 years if aggravated (§ 13-702).
Aggravated robbery (Class 3 felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 8.75 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $150,000
A first offence: usual term 3.5 years, between 2.5 and 7 years; 2 years if mitigated and 8.75 years if aggravated (§ 13-702).
Armed robbery (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 12.5 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $150,000
A first offence: usual term 5 years, between 4 and 10 years; 3 years if the court finds mitigating factors and 12.5 years if it finds aggravating factors (§ 13-702). If it is a dangerous offence, the range is 7 to 21 years (§ 13-704).
California
2 to 5 years (second degree) up to 3 to 9 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
Three possible terms set by the statute: 2, 3 or 5. The court chooses among them.
Robbery in the first degree (Felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 9 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000, where the offence sets no fine (§ 672)
3, 4 or 6 years in most first-degree cases. If the defendant acted in concert with two or more others inside an inhabited dwelling or similar place, it is 3, 6 or 9 years.
Colorado
A class 4 felony (robbery); a class 3 felony (aggravated robbery)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery: knowingly taking anything of value from the person or presence of another by force, threats or intimidation (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 6 years
- Fine
- $2,000 to $500,000
Aggravated robbery (Class 3 felony)
- Least
- 4 years
- Most
- 12 years
- Fine
- $3,000 to $750,000
Aggravated robbery is also an extraordinary risk crime subject to a modified presumptive range under § 18-1.3-401(10).
Connecticut
A class C felony (second degree) up to a class B felony (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- Up to $10,000
Robbery in the first degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Up to $15,000
A person found guilty under subdivision (a)(2) of the section is sentenced to a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment under the section.
Delaware
Up to 5 years (second degree, class E) up to 2 to 25 years (first degree, class B)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Class E felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
Class D (up to 8 years) where the person takes a motor vehicle and, while in control of it, does one of the further listed acts.
Robbery in the first degree (causing physical injury to a non-participant, displaying what appears to be a deadly weapon, being armed with a dangerous instrument, a victim aged 65 or older, and other listed cases) (Class B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 25 years
Florida
Up to 15 years (unarmed) up to life (armed)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery with no weapon (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 15 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Robbery with a weapon (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 30 years (up to life where the statute says so)
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Where the offender carried a weapon (not a firearm or deadly weapon), a first-degree felony.
Robbery with a firearm or other deadly weapon (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- A term of years up to life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
A first-degree felony punishable by a term of years up to life.
Idaho
At least 5 years, and the term may extend to life
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment
Illinois
A Class 2 felony (robbery) up to a Class X felony (armed robbery)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Up to $25,000, or the amount specified in the offence if greater
It is a Class 1 felony if the victim is 60 or older or has a physical disability, or the robbery is committed in a school or place of worship.
Aggravated robbery (Class 1 felony)
- Least
- 4 years
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Up to $25,000, or the amount specified in the offence if greater
Armed robbery (Class X felony)
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- 30 years
- Fine
- Up to $25,000, or the amount specified in the offence if greater
Years are added to the term where a firearm is used: 15 years for a violation of subsection (a)(2), 20 years for (a)(3), and further additions under the later paragraphs of the subsection.
Iowa
Up to 10 years (second degree) to up to 25 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of $1,370 to $13,660
A robbery that is not first degree. Parole is not possible until between one-half and seven-tenths of the term is served (§ 902.12).
Robbery in the first degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 25 years
Committed by purposely inflicting or attempting to inflict serious injury, or by being armed with a dangerous weapon. Parole is not possible until between one-half and seven-tenths of the term is served (§ 902.12).
Maine
Up to 10 years (Class B) up to 30 years (Class A)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (theft while recklessly injuring another, or while threatening force) (Class B crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Robbery (using physical force, intentionally inflicting or attempting to inflict bodily injury, or being armed with a dangerous weapon) (Class A crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 30 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $50,000
17-A M.R.S. § 651(1)(C), (D), (E); 17-A M.R.S. §§ 1604, 1704
Maryland
Up to 15 years (robbery) up to 20 years (robbery with a dangerous weapon)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 15 years
Robbery with a dangerous weapon (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 20 years
Massachusetts
Life or any term of years (armed robbery; unarmed robbery); at least 5 years if armed with a firearm
Show the degrees and the statutes
Unarmed robbery by force and violence, or by assault and putting in fear (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment or any term of years
Armed robbery: being armed with a dangerous weapon, assaulting and robbing (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years if masked or disguised (first offence), or if armed with a firearm
- Most
- Life imprisonment or any term of years
A person who commits it while masked or disguised receives at least 5 years for a first offence and at least 10 for a later one. A person who commits it armed with a firearm receives at least 5 years, and at least 15 for a later offence.
Michigan
Up to 15 years (unarmed robbery); life or any term of years (armed robbery)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Unarmed robbery (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
Armed robbery (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
The court may impose life or any term of years. If the offence results in an aggravated assault or serious injury to another person, the minimum term must be at least 2 years.
Minnesota
Up to 10 years (robbery) up to 20 years (armed or injuring)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Aggravated robbery in the second degree (implying possession of a dangerous weapon) (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $30,000
Aggravated robbery in the first degree (armed with a dangerous weapon, or inflicting bodily harm) (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $35,000
Missouri
A class B felony (second degree) up to a class A felony (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
Robbery in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 30 years, or life imprisonment
Montana
2 to 40 years and a fine of up to $50,000
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery: in the course of committing a theft, inflicting or threatening bodily injury, or committing or threatening a felony other than theft (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 40 years
- Fine
- Up to $50,000, in addition
Nebraska
A Class II felony: 1 to 50 years
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Class II felony)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 50 years
Nevada
2 to 15 years (category B)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery: taking personal property from the person of another, or in the person's presence, against the person's will, by force or violence or fear of injury (Category B felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 15 years
New Hampshire
A class B felony (up to 7 years), or a class A felony if armed or injury is inflicted (up to 15 years)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Up to $4,000
Robbery while armed with a deadly weapon, or inflicting or attempting serious injury (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Up to $4,000
Where the weapon is a firearm, the defendant is sentenced under RSA 651:2, II-g.
New York
2 to 7 years (third degree) up to 5 to 25 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the third degree (Class D violent felony)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 7 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
Robbery in the second degree (Class C violent felony)
- Least
- 3.5 years
- Most
- 15 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
Robbery in the first degree (Class B violent felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to the higher of $5,000 or double the gain from the crime (§ 80.00)
For example, where the robber causes serious injury, is armed with a deadly weapon, or displays what appears to be a firearm.
North Carolina
Class D (38 to 108 months)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery with firearms or other dangerous weapons (Class D felony)
- Least
- 38 months (3 years 2 months)
- Most
- 108 months (9 years)
- Fine
- Fine in the court's discretion, in addition to imprisonment
Prior Record Level I: the minimum term runs from 38 to 80 months (mitigated 38 to 51, presumptive 51 to 64, aggravated 64 to 80). The maximum is 108 months where the minimum is 80 (G.S. 15A-1340.17(e)). Active prison is required. North Carolina's statute read covers robbery with a dangerous weapon. Common-law robbery without a weapon is a separate, lower offence that was not read for this table.
North Dakota
Up to 5 years (class C) up to 20 years (firing a firearm or hurling a destructive device)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (otherwise) (Class C felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $10,000
Robbery where the robber possesses or pretends to possess a firearm or other dangerous weapon, menaces another with serious bodily injury, inflicts bodily injury, or is aided by an accomplice present (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Robbery where the actor fires a firearm, or explodes or hurls a destructive device, or directs the force of another dangerous weapon against another (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- A fine of up to $20,000
Ohio
Felony of the third degree (some robbery) up to felony of the first degree (aggravated robbery)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery under division (A)(3): using or threatening the immediate use of force against another (Felony of the third degree)
- Least
- 9 months
- Most
- 36 months (60 months for some listed offences)
- Fine
- Up to $10,000
Robbery under division (A)(1) or (2): having a deadly weapon, or inflicting, attempting or threatening physical harm (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- 2 years (minimum term)
- Most
- 12 years (an 8 year minimum plus 50 per cent)
- Fine
- Up to $15,000
Aggravated robbery (having a deadly weapon, or inflicting or attempting serious physical harm) (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- 3 years (minimum term)
- Most
- 16 years 6 months (an 11 year minimum plus 50 per cent)
- Fine
- Up to $20,000
Pennsylvania
A felony of the third degree up to a felony of the first degree
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery under subsection (a)(1)(v) (Felony of the third degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years
Robbery under subsection (a)(1)(iv) or (vi) (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
Robbery (all other forms not listed above, under § 3701(a)(1)) (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
Rhode Island
5 to 30 years (second degree); at least 10 years and up to life (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 30 years
- Fine
- Up to $10,000, or both
Robbery in the first degree (Offence)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- Up to $15,000, or both
South Carolina
Up to 15 years (common law robbery) up to 10 to 30 years (armed robbery)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Common law robbery (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
Attempted armed robbery (armed with a deadly weapon, or alleging that one is armed) (Felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years
Armed robbery (armed with a pistol, dirk, razor or other deadly weapon, or alleging by words or action that one is armed) (Felony)
- Least
- 10 years (mandatory; no part may be suspended, no parole before 7 years served)
- Most
- 30 years
South Dakota
Up to 10 years (second degree) up to 25 years (first degree, with a dangerous weapon)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Class 4 felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
- Fine
- A fine of $20,000 may be added
Robbery in the first degree (by use of a dangerous weapon or an object simulating one) (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 25 years
- Fine
- A fine of $50,000 may be added
Texas
2 to 20 years (robbery) up to 5 to 99 years, or life (aggravated robbery)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery (Felony of the second degree)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Aggravated robbery (Felony of the first degree)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 99 years, or life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $10,000
Vermont
Up to 10 years (assault and robbery); 1 to 15 years (armed); 1 to 20 years (causing bodily injury)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Assault and robbery (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
Assault and robbery while armed with a dangerous weapon (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 15 years
Assault and robbery causing bodily injury (Offence)
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 20 years
Virginia
1 to 5 years (threat only) up to 20 years to life (serious injury or death)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery by threat or intimidation, with no deadly weapon (Class 6 felony)
- Least
- 1 year in prison, or no prison term if the court chooses jail instead
- Most
- 5 years, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
Robbery by physical force, or by displaying a deadly weapon other than a firearm (Class 5 felony)
- Least
- 1 year in prison, or no prison term if the court chooses jail instead
- Most
- 10 years, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
Robbery by using or displaying a firearm (Class 3 felony)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 20 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $100,000
Robbery causing serious bodily injury or death (Class 2 felony)
- Least
- 20 years
- Most
- Life
- Fine
- Fine of up to $100,000
Virginia grades robbery by the means used, not by degrees.
Washington
Up to 10 years (second degree) up to life (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree (Class B felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Up to 10 years
- Fine
- Fine of up to $20,000
Robbery in the first degree (Class A felony)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to $50,000
West Virginia
5 to 18 years (second degree); at least 10 years (first degree)
Show the degrees and the statutes
Robbery in the second degree: placing the victim in fear of bodily injury, or using means designed to temporarily disable the victim (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 18 years
Robbery in the first degree: committing violence to the person, or using the threat of deadly force by presenting a firearm or other deadly weapon (Offence)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- No maximum stated in the subsection read
32 countries covered so far
Country codes name the same acts differently, so each entry says which offence is the closest match. Ranges are from the code’s own text.
Algeria
2 to 10 years (theft with violence) up to life (armed theft)
Show the degrees and the articles
Theft with violence or threat of violence, or where the victim is vulnerable (Délit (emprisonnement))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years' imprisonment
Theft with two or more of: violence or threat, night, a group, break-in or climbing into a dwelling, and other listed circumstances (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years' réclusion
Theft where one of the thieves carries a weapon, visible or hidden (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion criminelle à perpétuité)
Algerian law treats robbery as theft made worse by violence or a weapon. Carrying a weapon during a theft, even if it is not used, brings the highest penalty.
Argentina
1 month to 6 years (robbery), 5 to 15 years (armed or with serious injury), 10 to 25 years (robbery causing death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (taking another's movable property with force on things or violence on persons) (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 1 month
- Most
- 6 years
Robbery in an unpopulated place, in a gang, or by breaking through a wall, fence, roof, floor, door or window of an inhabited place (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Robbery with violence causing the injuries of arts. 90 or 91, or with arms, or in an unpopulated place and in a gang (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
If a firearm is used, the scale is raised by one third at both the minimum and the maximum. If the firearm cannot be shown to be capable of firing, or the weapon is a prop, the range is 3 to 10 years.
Robbery in which a death results on the occasion of the robbery (Prisión or reclusión)
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 25 years
Austria
1 to 10 years (robbery) up to 10 to 20 years or life (robbery that results in death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Raub ohne erhebliche Gewalt an einer Sache geringen Wertes (minor robbery) (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 5 years
Only where the consequences were minor and it is not aggravated robbery.
Raub (robbery: taking or extorting property by violence or a threat to life or limb) (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Schwerer Raub (robbery with a weapon, or as a member of a criminal association) (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 15 years
Schwerer Raub where the violence causes serious injury (Straftat (Freiheitsstrafe))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
10 to 20 years where it causes lasting grave consequences, and 10 to 20 years or life where it causes death.
Brazil
6 to 10 years (robbery) up to 24 to 30 years (robbery resulting in death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Roubo (theft by serious threat or violence) (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- 10 years
Roubo with serious bodily injury resulting from the violence (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 7 years
- Most
- 18 years
Latrocínio (robbery where the violence results in death) (Reclusão (the more serious kind of prison))
- Least
- 24 years
- Most
- 30 years
The robbery article was rewritten in 2026. The penalty is raised by one third to one half in the cases listed in art. 157 §2 (two or more people, a knife or other blade, a firearm theft and others).
Bulgaria
3 to 10 years (robbery); 5 to 15 years (aggravated); 15 to 20 years or life (robbery with death or killing)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (грабеж): taking a movable thing by force or threat (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Robbery in large amounts, by two or more persons in a prior agreement, with serious or moderate bodily harm, or by an organised group member, among others (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
Robbery with serious or moderate bodily harm followed by death, with killing or attempted killing, or in particularly large amounts while armed (Offence (лишаване от свобода))
- Least
- 15 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment (доживотен затвор), or life without substitution (доживотен затвор без замяна)
Canada
Imprisonment for life; at least 5 years if a restricted or prohibited firearm is used
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (Indictable offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
No minimum is set in the ordinary case.
Robbery with a restricted or prohibited firearm, or with any firearm for a criminal organization (Indictable offence)
- Least
- 5 years (7 years for a second or later offence)
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
China
3 to 10 years (robbery) up to at least 10 years, life or death (aggravated robbery)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (抢劫罪: taking public or private property by violence, coercion or other means) (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years' fixed-term imprisonment
- Fine
- A fine is imposed as well
Robbery in an aggravated case (listed in art. 263(1) to (8)) (Crime (fixed-term imprisonment))
- Least
- 10 years (if a fixed term is chosen)
- Most
- Death, or life imprisonment, or fixed-term imprisonment of 15 years
A fine or confiscation of property is also imposed.
The aggravated cases include robbing a home, robbing on public transport, robbing a bank, repeated robbery or a very large amount, causing serious injury or death, impersonating military or police, using a firearm, and robbing relief or military supplies.
Croatia
1 to 10 years (robbery); 3 to 12 years (armed or large gain); at least 5 years if death results
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (razbojništvo): using force or a threat to the life or body to take another's movable thing (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 10 years
Robbery with a significant gain or a weapon or dangerous tool (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 12 years
Robbery causing death (Offence (kazna zatvora))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 20 years (the maximum prison term; art. 44)
Czechia
2 to 10 years; up to 18 years if death results
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (loupež): violence or a threat of immediate violence to take another's thing (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
Robbery as a member of an organised group, causing serious harm to health, or causing substantial damage (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 12 years
Robbery causing large-scale damage (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 8 years
- Most
- 15 years
Robbery causing death (Offence (imprisonment))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 18 years
England and Wales
Up to life imprisonment (no statutory minimum)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (stealing, using force or putting a person in fear of force) (Indictable offence (Crown Court))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment
Assault with intent to rob carries the same maximum.
Finland
4 months to 6 years (robbery); 2 to 10 years (aggravated robbery)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (ryöstö) (Offence)
- Least
- 4 months
- Most
- 6 years
Aggravated robbery (törkeä ryöstö) (Offence)
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 10 years
France
Up to 5 years (theft with violence causing no incapacity) up to life (violence causing death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Theft preceded, accompanied or followed by violence causing no total incapacity for work (Délit (emprisonnement))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years' imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €75,000
Theft with violence causing incapacity of 8 days or less (Délit (emprisonnement))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years' imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €100,000
Theft with violence causing incapacity of more than 8 days (Délit (emprisonnement))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years' imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
Theft with violence causing mutilation or permanent disability (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years' criminal imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
Theft with use or threat of a weapon (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 20 years' criminal imprisonment
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
Theft with violence causing death, or with torture or barbarous acts (Crime (réclusion criminelle))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion criminelle à perpétuité)
- Fine
- Fine of up to €150,000
French law treats robbery as theft (vol) made worse by violence or a weapon. The more serious the violence, the higher the maximum.
Germany
At least 1 year (robbery) up to life or at least 10 years (robbery resulting in death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Raub (robbery: taking property by force or threat to life or limb) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 15 years (the longest fixed term, section 38)
Less serious cases: 6 months to 5 years.
Schwerer Raub (aggravated robbery: carrying a weapon, or as a member of a gang) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 15 years (the longest fixed term, section 38)
Schwerer Raub (aggravated robbery: using a weapon, seriously abusing the victim or endangering life) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years (the longest fixed term, section 38)
Raub mit Todesfolge (robbery at least recklessly causing death) (Verbrechen (serious offence: minimum term of one year or more))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Or life imprisonment.
Where the offence is a less serious case, section 249 allows between 6 months and 5 years.
Hungary
2 to 8 years (robbery); up to 15 years (aggravated)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (rablás) (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 8 years
Robbery committed armed, in a group, in a criminal association, or on a considerable value, among other listed ways (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years
Robbery in the further aggravated forms of s. 365(4) (Offence (deprivation of liberty))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
Iceland
6 months to 10 years; up to 16 years if the robbery involved very great danger
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (rán): taking or extorting money or valuables by bodily violence or a threat of immediate violence (Offence (fangelsi))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 10 years
General Penal Code of Iceland (Almenn hegningarlög), art. 252
Robbery involving very great danger (Offence (fangelsi))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 16 years
General Penal Code of Iceland (Almenn hegningarlög), art. 252
India
Up to 10 years (robbery), up to 14 years on a highway at night, and life for dacoity
Show the degrees and the articles
Attempt to commit robbery (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years' rigorous imprisonment
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
Robbery (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years' rigorous imprisonment
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
14 years where the robbery is committed on the highway between sunset and sunrise.
Dacoity (robbery by five or more persons together) (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life, or rigorous imprisonment for up to 10 years
- Fine
- A fine may also be imposed
Dacoity with murder (Offence (imprisonment of either description))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death, or imprisonment for life, or rigorous imprisonment of at least 10 years
Dacoity is robbery by five or more persons together. Where one of them commits murder, all of them are punished with death or life.
Ireland
Imprisonment for life
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery: stealing, and using force or putting a person in fear of force to do so (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Italy
3 to 10 years up to 6 to 20 years (armed, or by a group)
Show the degrees and the articles
Rapina (taking property by violence or threat) (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 10 years
Rapina with arms, by a disguised person, by several people together, or violence causing incapacity (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- 20 years
Rapina with two or more of those circumstances, or one of them with another aggravating circumstance of art. 61 (Delitto (reclusione))
- Least
- 7 years
- Most
- 20 years
Japan
At least 5 years (robbery) up to death or life (robbery causing death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (強盗: taking property by violence or threat) (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 12)
Robbery causing injury (強盗致傷) (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment (detention for life)
Life or a fixed term of at least 6 years.
Robbery combined with non-consensual sexual intercourse (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- 7 years
- Most
- Life imprisonment (detention for life)
Life or a fixed term of at least 7 years.
Robbery causing death (強盗致死), or robbery with sexual intercourse resulting in death (Crime (detention, 拘禁刑))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Death or life imprisonment
Latvia
Up to 5 years (robbery); 3 to 12 years (large amount); 5 to 15 years (with firearms or explosives)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (laupīšana): taking another's movable property with violence or a threat of violence (Offence (brīvības atņemšana))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 5 years
Or a lighter sanction such as probation, community service or a fine, in the lower tiers
Robbery of a large amount, or in other listed aggravating forms (Offence (brīvības atņemšana))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 12 years
Robbery using firearms or explosives, among other listed forms (Offence (brīvības atņemšana))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years
Morocco
5 to 10 years (theft with violence) up to life (armed theft)
Show the degrees and the articles
Theft with one aggravating circumstance (violence or threat, night, a group, break-in, and others) (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years' réclusion
Theft with two or more aggravating circumstances (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 20 years' réclusion
Theft on public roads, in public transport or at stations or ports, with one of the circumstances of article 509 (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- 20 years
- Most
- 30 years' réclusion
Theft where one of the thieves carries a weapon, visible or hidden (Crime (réclusion))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- Life imprisonment (réclusion perpétuelle)
Moroccan law treats robbery as theft with aggravating circumstances such as violence, a weapon or night. The more circumstances, the higher the penalty.
Netherlands
Up to 9 years (theft with violence) up to 15 years (resulting in death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Diefstal met geweld (theft preceded, accompanied or followed by violence or threat of violence) (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 9 years' prison
The same, at night in a home, on the public road, by two or more people, by breaking in, causing serious bodily injury, and other listed cases (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 12 years' prison
The same, resulting in death (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years' prison
Afpersing (extortion: forcing someone by violence or threat to hand over property) (Misdrijf (crime))
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 9 years' prison
New Zealand
Up to 10 years (robbery); up to 14 years (aggravated robbery)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery: theft accompanied by violence or threats of violence, to extort the property or overcome resistance (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years
Aggravated robbery: causing grievous bodily harm, robbing together with others, or being armed (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 14 years
Norway
Up to 6 years (robbery); up to 15 years (aggravated robbery)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (ran) (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 6 years
Aggravated robbery (grovt ran): serious violence, a threat with a firearm or other especially dangerous tool, careful planning or an undefended victim, among others (Offence)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 15 years
Portugal
1 to 8 years (robbery); 3 to 15 years (aggravated); 8 to 16 years (robbery causing death)
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (roubo) (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 8 years
Robbery in the aggravated forms of art. 210(2) (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 15 years
Robbery causing death (Offence (pena de prisão))
- Least
- 8 years
- Most
- 16 years
Russia
Up to 4 years (open theft) up to 15 years (robbery in an aggravated form)
Show the degrees and the articles
Open theft (grabezh) (Crime of medium gravity)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 4 years' imprisonment (the court may choose compulsory work, corrective labour, restriction of freedom, forced labour or arrest instead)
Open theft by a group, by entering a dwelling, with violence not dangerous to life or health, or in a large amount (Grave crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 7 years' imprisonment (or forced labour for up to 5 years)
Robbery with violence dangerous to life or health, or the threat of it (razboi) (Grave crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 8 years' imprisonment (or forced labour for up to 5 years)
Robbery by a group, or with a weapon or object used as a weapon (Grave crime)
- Least
- No minimum term set by the statute
- Most
- 10 years' imprisonment
Robbery with entry into a dwelling, or in a large amount (Especially grave crime)
- Least
- 7 years
- Most
- 12 years' imprisonment
Robbery by an organised group, in an especially large amount, or causing grievous bodily harm (Especially grave crime)
- Least
- 8 years
- Most
- 15 years' imprisonment
Russian law has two offences. 'Grabezh' is open theft, and 'razboi' is an attack to steal with violence dangerous to life or health, or the threat of it.
South Korea
At least 3 years; life or at least 5 years if armed or at night in a dwelling; death or life for robbery-murder
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (taking property by violence or threat) (Offence)
- Least
- 3 years
- Most
- 30 years (the maximum for a term of imprisonment)
Special robbery (committed after entering a dwelling at night, or while carrying a weapon, or by two or more persons together) (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Life imprisonment, or a term of at least five years.
Robbery causing injury (Offence)
- Least
- 7 years
- Most
- Imprisonment for life
Life imprisonment, or a term of at least seven years.
Robbery causing death (Offence)
- Least
- 10 years (if death was caused but the robber did not kill)
- Most
- Death
A robber who kills is punished by death or life imprisonment. A robber who causes death is punished by life imprisonment or a term of at least ten years.
Spain
2 to 5 years (robbery with violence or intimidation), raised where a weapon is used
Show the degrees and the articles
Robo con violencia o intimidación (robbery with violence or intimidation against people) (Pena menos grave (prison of 3 months to 5 years))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 5 years
The same, in an inhabited house or a building open to the public (Pena menos grave (prison of 3 months to 5 years))
- Least
- 3 years and 6 months
- Most
- 5 years
The same, using weapons or other equally dangerous means (Pena grave (prison of more than 5 years))
- Least
- The upper half of the range above
- Most
- The upper half of the penalties above
Spanish 'robo' covers both force against things (breaking in, which is burglary) and violence or intimidation against people (robbery).
Sweden
1 year 6 months to 6 years (rån) up to 5 to 10 years (grovt rån)
Show the degrees and the articles
Rån (robbery: theft, extortion or taking a payment instrument by violence or by a threat that seems an acute danger) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- 1 year 6 months
- Most
- 6 years
Grovt rån (gross robbery: life-threatening violence, serious bodily injury, ruthless exploitation of a defenceless victim, or a particularly dangerous act) (Brott (fängelse))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 10 years
Switzerland
6 months to 10 years (Raub) up to at least 5 years (life-endangering or cruel)
Show the degrees and the articles
Raub (theft with violence against a person, a threat of present danger to life or limb, or after making the victim unable to resist) (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 6 months
- Most
- 10 years
Raub carrying a firearm or other dangerous weapon (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 1 year
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 40)
Raub as a member of a gang, or showing special dangerousness in the way it is done (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 2 years
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 40)
Raub that endangers the victim's life, seriously injures them or treats them cruelly (Verbrechen (felony: more than 3 years))
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 20 years (the longest fixed term, art. 40)
Taiwan
At least 5 years; at least 7 years if armed or in a group, among others; death, life or at least 10 years if it ends in rape or arson
Show the degrees and the articles
Robbery (強盜) (Offence)
- Least
- 5 years
- Most
- 15 years (the maximum for a limited term, up to 20 if aggravated; art. 33)
Robbery with one of the aggravating circumstances of art. 321(1), such as entering a dwelling, carrying a weapon or acting in a group of three or more (Offence)
- Least
- 7 years
- Most
- 15 years (the maximum for a limited term, up to 20 if aggravated; art. 33)
Robbery causing death (Offence)
- Least
- 10 years (the alternatives are death or life imprisonment)
- Most
- Death
Robbery with arson, rape, kidnapping for ransom or causing serious injury (Offence)
- Least
- 10 years (the alternatives are death or life imprisonment)
- Most
- Death
Robbery with intentional killing (Offence)
- Least
- Life imprisonment (the alternative is death)
- Most
- Death
Turkey
6 to 10 years (yağma) up to 10 to 15 years (armed, by a group, at night)
Show the degrees and the articles
Yağma (robbery: forcing handing over property by threat to life or body, or by force) (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- 6 years
- Most
- 10 years
Nitelikli yağma (robbery with a weapon, by a disguised person, by several persons, on the road or in a home or workplace, against a defenceless person, at night, and other listed cases) (Crime (hapis, prison))
- Least
- 10 years
- Most
- 15 years
Injuries caused during the robbery are also punished under the injury provisions (art. 149(2)).
Other states and countries are being added. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
