The offence
Section 8 of the Theft Act 1968 makes it an offence to steal, and immediately before or at the time of doing so, to use force on any person, or seek to put them in fear of force. The offence is triable either-way and carries up to life imprisonment.
Defences
- No theft, or no intention permanently to deprive
- No force or threat of force immediately before or at the time
- Mistaken identity or disputed presence
- Challenges to identification and CCTV evidence
Sentencing
Robbery carries up to life imprisonment. The guidelines weigh the level of force, whether a weapon was used, the vulnerability of the victim, and the defendant’s role.
Frequently asked questions
Robbery is theft accompanied by the use or threat of force immediately before or at the time. Without force, the offence is theft.
Life imprisonment on indictment. The sentence reflects the level of force and the harm caused.
Yes. Robbery cases often turn on identification, and the procedures and quality of identification evidence can be challenged under established guidelines.