The main difference between robbery and theft is that robbery involves the use of violence, intimidation, or force against property, while theft refers to the removal of goods without these elements.
Property offences
Heist
The crime of robbery is characterized by the taking of another’s property with the intent to profit. Unlike theft, robbery is punished with more severe penalties because it involves the use of violence, intimidation, or force against property. This crime is regulated by the Penal Code and has different forms that vary depending on the severity of the act committed.
About the robbery
If the crime of theft is committed in an establishment open to the public outside of its opening hours, the penalty can range from 1 to 5 years in prison, as established in article 241 of the Penal Code.
The crime of robbery with violence or intimidation occurs when the perpetrator uses physical force or threats against the victim to steal someone else’s property. This crime is punishable by two to five years in prison, depending on the severity of the offense.
If the crime of robbery is committed with the use of weapons or other dangerous means, the penalty associated with the crime of robbery increases, applying the penalty in its upper half, as established by the Penal Code.
The crime of unauthorized use of a vehicle, regulated in Article 244 of the Penal Code , is punishable by community service or a fine, provided the vehicle is returned within 48 hours. If it is not returned within this period, the act will be punished as theft or robbery , as applicable.
The use of violence, the commission of the crime of robbery in an inhabited home, and the use of weapons or dangerous means are some of the circumstances that can increase the penalty for the crime of robbery .