Facing a robbery charge in Florida is a life-changing event. The state treats robbery as a violent felony, which can mean prison time, a permanent criminal record, and consequences that follow long after your case is over. If you or someone you love has been arrested or is under investigation, it’s important to understand how robbery is defined in Florida, what penalties apply, and how a skilled Hillsborough County criminal defense attorney can help.
Robbery in Florida: Why These Charges Are So Serious
Florida law defines robbery as taking money or property from another person with the use of force, violence, assault, or threat. This crime is outlined in Florida Statute § 812.13. What makes robbery especially serious is the presence of force or threat during the act. Unlike some other theft crimes, robbery often includes direct confrontation with a victim.
Robbery is always charged as a felony in Florida. Depending on the circumstances, it can carry up to life in prison. Even first-time offenders face mandatory prison sentences in many cases.
Beyond the courtroom, robbery charges can damage your reputation, limit job opportunities, and put your freedom at risk.
What Sets Robbery Apart from Theft and Burglary?
Not all property crimes are the same. Here’s how Florida law breaks down the differences:
- Theft (Fla. Stat. § 812.014): Involves taking someone else’s property without their permission. Force is not used. Shoplifting is one example.
- Burglary (Fla. Stat. § 810.02): Occurs when someone enters a building or structure without permission and intends to commit a crime inside, whether or not anything is taken.
- Robbery (Fla. Stat. § 812.13): Requires the use of force, violence, or threats while taking property from a person. It involves direct confrontation.
Because of that element of force, robbery is prosecuted more harshly than theft or burglary. Courts often view it as a threat to public safety.
Degrees of Robbery in Florida and What the Law Says
In Florida, robbery charges vary based on whether a weapon was used. Here’s a breakdown of the different types and penalties:
- Armed Robbery (First-Degree Felony): Involves the use or possession of a firearm, knife, or other weapon during the act. Punishable by up to life in prison. (Fla. Stat. § 812.13(2)(a))
- Robbery Without a Weapon (Second-Degree Felony): Still a serious charge, even when no weapon is involved. Punishable by up to 15 years in prison. (Fla. Stat. § 812.13(2)(c))
Florida also recognizes these types of robbery:
- Sudden snatching: Taking something directly from someone’s person, like grabbing a purse or phone.
- Strong-arm robbery: Involves using intimidation or physical force, but without a weapon.
- Home-invasion robbery: Breaking into a home while occupants are present and committing robbery.
Be aware that the 10-20-Life law applies if a gun is involved:
- Displaying a firearm during a robbery: 10-year minimum sentence
- Firing a weapon during the crime: 20-year minimum
- Injuring or killing someone using a gun: 25 years to life in prison
Because the penalties for robbery charges vary because of the factors involved, seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is strongly advised to understand the potential punishment you may face for a conviction.
Real-World Impact: Robbery Statistics in Florida and Hillsborough County
Robbery isn’t just a legal theory—it’s a crime prosecutors in Florida pursue aggressively. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), there were approximately 11,155 reported robbery offenses statewide in 2021. In Hillsborough County alone, which includes Tampa, authorities report hundreds of robbery offenses annually. Counties with larger urban populations tend to report more cases.
Here’s a scenario that illustrates how fast things can escalate:
A 20-year-old Tampa resident is accused of stealing a backpack from someone at a bus stop. The victim told police the suspect pushed him before running off. Even without a weapon, the physical force used makes this incident a strong-arm robbery. The suspect could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Defense Strategies for Robbery Charges in Florida
If you’ve been charged, it’s important to know that there are legal defenses that may apply to your case.
Here are some common strategies:
- Mistaken identity: Witnesses may misidentify suspects under stressful conditions.
- No threat or force: If the item was taken without coercion or violence, it may not be robbery.
- Alibi: You may have solid proof you were somewhere else when the crime occurred.
- Coercion or duress: You may have been forced by someone else to participate in the crime.
In many cases, early legal intervention can make a big difference. A defense lawyer can push to suppress evidence, request diversion programs for eligible clients, or negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges.
Why You Need a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney
Robbery charges are serious felony offenses that require skilled legal guidance. The outcome of your case, whether dismissal, reduced charge, or conviction, can impact you for the rest of your life.
At Anthony G. Ryan, P.A., we have experience defending clients in robbery cases across Florida, including Tampa and Hillsborough County. We understand the stakes and work aggressively to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.
If you’re facing robbery charges or believe you’re under investigation, don’t wait to get legal advice. With early action and the right defense strategy, you can make informed decisions about your future.
Request a Confidential Consultation Today
Robbery charges don’t have to define your life. Get the information and support you need from a team that understands Florida law inside and out.
Contact Anthony G. Ryan, P.A., today to schedule a confidential case review and start building your defense.
