Robbery vs Larceny

 Posted on July 29, 2020 in Theft and Property Crimes

When the average person talks about crime, they may use the terms ‘robbery’ and ‘theft’ or ‘larceny’ interchangeably. However, in Connecticut law, the two have very different meanings. Larceny is what one might think of as simple theft, while robbery is a more serious offense, often carrying a much more serious penalty. If you have been charged with any kind of theft crime, it is crucial to understand your options in terms of how to defend yourself against such charges.

Larceny Crimes In Connecticut Law

“Larceny” is not a specific crime in Connecticut; rather, it is used to describe a large group of offenses in which someone takes, obtains, or withholds another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. There are several crimes contained under the umbrella of larceny, and to reflect this, there are six different degrees of larceny crimes under Connecticut law. Examples include embezzlement, shoplifting, conversion of a motor vehicle, theft of services, and several other offenses.

Some larceny crimes are misdemeanors, while others are felonies; the classification of the crime will usually depend on the value of the property stolen. However, there are other factors that might play a role as well, such as the age or disability of the victim and the presence or absence of fraud. For example, larceny involving false pretenses and a disabled victim is second-degree larceny, regardless of the value of the property stolen.

Connecticut Robbery Involves Force

Robbery, by comparison, is committing larceny while using or threatening the use of physical force on someone else to either make them give up the property or overcome resistance. The threatening does not have to be physical in itself - flashing a gun, for example, still counts as the threat of force. Because of the inherently traumatic and threatening nature of robbery, its penalties are generally more severe than for non-violent theft crimes, though there are exceptions for particularly egregious larceny offenses.

Robbery can carry a sentence of anywhere between one and 20 years in prison, depending on the degree, with fines that can reach up to $15,000 for a first-degree offense. Additional penalties on top of this can be assessed for factors like the use of a deadly weapon, any prior convictions, and any injuries (and the severity of those injuries) to victims. It is important that you understand just what you may be up against if the evidence against you is significant.

Call a Fairfield County Theft Crimes Attorney

If you have been charged with robbery or another theft crime, it is crucial that you are aware of just how serious the situation may be. Enlisting an experienced Stamford theft crimes attorney for your case can make all the difference; Attorney Weiner is well versed in these matters and the Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner will work hard on yours. Contact our offices at 203-348-5846 today for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_952.htm#sec_53a-119