It’s not uncommon for people to use “robbery” and “burglary” as if they mean the same thing. If you walked into a ransacked home, you’d probably yell “I’ve been robbed!” but this technically wouldn’t be correct.
It’s important to understand the difference between robberies and burglaries because these two crimes are very different. Although they are both felonies and involve taking someone else’s property, that’s where the important similarities end.
What Is a Burglary?
If someone is charged with burglary, the allegation is that they intentionally entered a place without the lawful owner’s consent and with the intent to steal or commit a felony.
If a person was simply on someone else’s property without permission, they might face a lesser charge like trespassing or breaking and entering. This is why it’s important for the defendant to counter accusations that they intended to steal or commit a serious crime while on the alleged victim’s property.
In Colorado, burglary is a felony punished by three degrees. The maximum possible sentence for a burglary conviction is 24 years in prison, five years of parole, and up to $1 million in fines.
What Is a Robbery?
If someone is charged with robbery, they are accused of using force, threats, or intimidation to take something of value from someone else.
Robberies can be classified as Simple Robbery or Aggravated Robbery. What distinguishes these two classifications is whether or not someone uses or threatens to use a deadly weapon during a robbery. An example of a simple robbery would be a purse-snatching incident, but even this could be considered an aggravated robbery if a knife was drawn to intimidate the owner of the purse.
Also a felony, a simple robbery conviction can lead to four years in prison, up to five years of parole, and up to $500,000. Aggravated robberies are punished more severely with up to 32 years in prison, five years of parole, and fines of up to $750,000.
Are You Charged with a Theft-Related Crime?
Whether you are accused of burglary, robbery, or another theft-related crime, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel that can help you defend against your charges. Our attorneys at The Orr Law Firm can help clients like you who may be facing serious criminal charges.
For more information about our legal services, please contact The Orr Law Firm online.