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Robbery: Definition, Statistics, Prevention, and Effects

Robbery is a serious crime that involves taking something of value from someone by force or threat of force. Robbery can have devastating consequences for victims, who may suffer physical injuries, emotional trauma, financial losses, and fear of crime. Robbery also imposes significant costs on society, such as increased security spending, reduced quality of life, and reduced trust in institutions. In this article, we will explore the definition, statistics, prevention, and effects of robbery.

What is robbery?

Robbery is a form of theft that involves violence or intimidation. According to the FBI, robbery is defined as “the taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person or persons by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear.”

The legal definition of robbery

The legal definition of robbery may vary by jurisdiction, but generally it requires the following elements:

• A taking or attempted taking of property or money
• From a person or in their presence
• By force or threat of force
• With intent to steal

Robbery is usually classified as a felony, which means it carries a sentence of more than one year in prison. Depending on the circumstances, such as the use of a weapon, the amount stolen, the injury inflicted, or the identity of the victim, robbery may be further categorized into different degrees or levels of severity. For example, armed robbery is considered more serious than unarmed robbery, and robbing a bank is considered more serious than robbing a convenience store.

The types of robbery

There are different types of robbery depending on the target, location, method, and motive of the crime. Some common types of robbery are:

• Street robbery: This involves robbing someone in a public place, such as a sidewalk, park, or parking lot. Street robbers may use weapons, physical force, or verbal threats to coerce their victims.
• Commercial robbery: This involves robbing a business establishment, such as a store, restaurant, or office. Commercial robbers may target cash registers, safes, employees, or customers.
• Residential robbery: This involves robbing a home or apartment. Residential robbers may break into a dwelling when no one is home (burglary) or when someone is home (home invasion). Residential robbers may steal valuables, electronics, jewelry, or vehicles.
• Institutional robbery: This involves robbing an institution that holds large amounts of money or valuables, such as a bank, casino, museum, or armored car. Institutional robbers may use sophisticated planning, equipment, disguises, or accomplices to execute their heists.
• Carjacking: This involves robbing someone of their vehicle by force or threat of force. Carjackers may target drivers at traffic lights, gas stations, parking lots, or driveways.

The difference between robbery and other crimes

Robbery is often confused with other crimes that involve theft or violence. However, there are important distinctions between them:

• Larceny: This is the unlawful taking of property without the use or threat of force. Larceny does not involve contact with the victim. For example, shoplifting or pickp

  ocketing are examples of larceny.

• Burglary: This is the unlawful entry into a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime. Burglary does not require the use or threat of force, nor does it require contact with the victim. For example, breaking into a house to steal a TV or a laptop is burglary.
• Assault: This is the intentional infliction of bodily harm or fear of bodily harm on another person. Assault does not require the taking of property, nor does it require the intent to steal. For example, punching someone in the face or threatening someone with a knife is assault.
• Extortion: This is the obtaining of property or money from someone by coercion, such as blackmail, threats, or violence. Extortion does not require the use or threat of force at the time of the taking, nor does it require contact with the victim. For example, demanding money from someone in exchange for not revealing their secrets or harming their family is extortion.

How common is robbery?

Robbery is one of the most prevalent and serious crimes in the world. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), there were an estimated 6.8 million robberies reported globally in 2019, resulting in a robbery rate of 87.4 per 100,000 population. However, this number may be an underestimation, as many robberies go unreported due to fear, shame, distrust, or lack of resources.

The national and global trends of robbery

The national and global trends of robbery vary by region, country, and year. According to the UNODC, some of the general trends are:

• The Americas have the highest robbery rate in the world, with 206.7 per 100,000 population in 2019. This is followed by Africa (95.5), Europe (67.7), Oceania (59.1), and Asia (36.4).
• The countries with the highest robbery rates in 2019 were Venezuela (1,134.8), El Salvador (435.8), Brazil (431.7), Honduras (373.6), and South Africa (328.3).
• The countries with the lowest robbery rates in 2019 were Qatar (0.3), Japan (0.4), Singapore (0.5), China (0.6), and Bahrain (0.7).
• The global robbery rate has decreased by 18% from 2009 to 2019, from 106.6 to 87.4 per 100,000 population.
• The regions that have experienced the largest decrease in robbery rate from 2009 to 2019 are Europe (-35%), Oceania (-28%), and Asia (-25%).
• The regions that have experienced the smallest decrease or an increase in robbery rate from 2009 to 2019 are Africa (-8%), the Americas (-4%), and Oceania (+2%).

The factors that influence robbery rates

There are many factors that influence robbery rates, such as economic, social, demographic, cultural, and environmental factors. Some of the common factors are:

• Poverty and inequality: Robbery rates tend to be higher in countries or areas that have high levels of poverty and inequality, as people may resort to robbery as a means of survival or redistribution.
• Unemployment and education: Robbery rates tend to be higher in countries or areas that have high levels of unemployment and low levels of education, as people may lack legitimate opportunities or skills to earn income.
• Urbanization and population density: Robbery rates tend to be higher in countries or areas that have high levels of urbanization and population density, as people may face more competition for resources and more anonymity.
• Drug use and trafficking: Robbery rates tend to be higher in countries or areas that have high levels of drug use and trafficking, as people may commit robbery to fund their addiction or to protect their territory.
• Gun availability and regulation: Robbery rates tend to be higher in countries or areas that have high levels of gun availability and low levels of gun regulation, as people may use guns to facilitate their robberies or to defend themselves.

The most common targets and locations of robbery

The most common targets and locations of robbery depend on the type of robbery, the motive of the robber, and the opportunity of the crime. However, some general patterns are:

• The most common targets of street robbery are pedestrians, especially those who are young, female, alone , or carrying visible valuables, such as phones, wallets, or jewelry.
• The most common targets of commercial robbery are businesses that handle cash, such as convenience stores, gas stations, restaurants, or banks.
• The most common targets of residential robbery are homes that are unoccupied, isolated, or have signs of wealth, such as expensive cars, electronics, or jewelry.
• The most common targets of institutional robbery are institutions that have large amounts of money or valuables, such as banks, casinos, museums, or armored cars.
• The most common targets of carjacking are vehicles that are new, expensive, or easy to resell, such as SUVs, sports cars, or trucks.
• The most common locations of robbery are places that are crowded, dark, or have poor visibility, such as streets, parks, parking lots, alleys, or subways.

How can robbery be prevented?

Robbery can be prevented by taking personal safety measures, implementing security systems, and collaborating with law enforcement and community. Here are some tips for preventing robbery:

The personal safety tips for avoiding robbery

When you are out in public, you can reduce your risk of being robbed by following these personal safety tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as headphones, phones, or tablets.
• Walk confidently and purposefully and avoid eye contact with strangers.
• Stay in well-lit and populated areas and avoid shortcuts through dark or isolated places.
• Carry only the necessary amount of cash and valuables and keep them hidden or secure.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry, clothing, or accessories.
• Travel with a friend or a group and avoid walking alone at night.
• If you are approached by a robber, do not resist or argue. Give up your belongings and try to remember the robber’s appearance and direction of escape.
• Report the robbery to the police as soon as possible and seek medical attention if needed.

The security measures for businesses and homes

When you are at your business or home, you can deter robbers by implementing these security measures:

• Install locks, alarms, cameras, and lighting systems on doors, windows, and entrances.
• Keep cash and valuables in a safe or a locked drawer and deposit excess cash regularly.
• Display signs that indicate the presence of security devices or the absence of cash or valuables.
• Train employees and family members on how to handle robbery situations and how to activate emergency procedures.
• Join a neighborhood watch program or a business association to share information and resources with other members.

The role of law enforcement and community in deterring robbery

When you are part of a society, you can help prevent robbery by collaborating with law enforcement and community. Here are some ways to do so:

• Report any suspicious activity or crime to the police and provide accurate and detailed information.
• Cooperate with the police in their investigations and prosecutions of robbery cases.
• Support the police in their crime prevention and education programs.
• Participate in community events and activities that promote social cohesion and trust.
• Volunteer for community service or outreach programs that address the root causes of robbery, such as poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, or violence.

How does robbery affect victims?

Robbery can have devastating effects on victims. Victims may suffer physical injuries, emotional trauma, financial losses, and fear of crime. Robbery also imposes significant costs on society, such as increased security spending, reduced quality of life, and reduced trust in institutions. In this section, we will explore the effects of robbery on victims.

The physical and psychological effects of robbery on victims

Robbery can cause physical and psychological harm to victims. Victims may suffer injuries such as cuts, bruises, fractures, or gunshot wounds. They may also experience pain, discomfort, or disability as a result of their injuries. Some victims may require medical treatment or hospitalization for their injuries.

Robbery can also cause psychological distress to victims. Victims may experience shock, anger, sadness, guilt, or shame. They may also develop anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or substance abuse. Some victims may have difficulty sleeping, eating, working, or socializing. They may also lose confidence, self-esteem, or trust in others.

The economic and social costs of robbery for victims and society

Robbery can cause economic and social losses to victims and society. Victims may lose money, valuables, or property as a result of the robbery. They may also incur expenses such as medical bills, legal fees, insurance premiums, or replacement costs. Some victims may lose income or employment opportunities due to their injuries or trauma.

Robbery can also cause social costs to victims and society. Victims may suffer isolation, stigma, or discrimination from their family, friends, or community. They may also feel unsafe, insecure, or vulnerable in their environment. Society may face increased spending on law enforcement, criminal justice, health care, or social services due to robbery. Society may also experience decreased productivity, tourism, investment, or development due to robbery.

The support and resources available for robbery victims

Robbery victims are not alone. There are many support and resources available for them to cope with the effects of robbery. Some of the support and resources are:

• Victim assistance programs: These are programs that provide counseling, advocacy, compensation, or referrals for robbery victims. They may be run by government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or community groups.
• Victim support groups: These are groups that offer peer support, information, or education for robbery victims. They may be facilitated by professionals or volunteers.
• Victim hotlines: These are phone lines that offer crisis intervention, emotional support, or information for robbery victims. They may be available 24/7 or during specific hours.
• Victim websites: These are websites that offer online resources, such as articles, videos,

  Some of the websites that offer online resources for robbery victims are:

  • The FBI’s Coping with Crime Victimization page, which provides tips for coping, potential effects of trauma, and links to victim assistance programs.
  • The Office for Victims of Crime’s Help for Victims page, which provides information on victim compensation and assistance in your state, the OVC Directory of Crime Victim Services, the National Elder Fraud Hotline, the OVC Help Series for Crime Victims, and the International Terrorism Expense Reimbursement Program.
  • The National Center for Victims of Crime’s website, which provides information on various types of crime, victim rights and laws, victim services, and advocacy.

  Conclusion

  Robbery is a serious crime that involves taking something of value from someone by force or threat of force. Robbery can have devastating consequences for victims, who may suffer physical injuries, emotional trauma, financial losses, and fear of crime. Robbery also imposes significant costs on society, such as increased security spending, reduced quality of life, and reduced trust in institutions.

  Robbery can be prevented by taking personal safety measures, implementing security systems, and collaborating with law enforcement and community. There are also many support and resources available for robbery victims to cope with the effects of robbery.

  If you or someone you know has been a victim of robbery, you are not alone. You can seek help from friends, family, a member of the clergy, a counselor, or a victim assistance professional. You can also report the robbery to the police and seek medical attention if needed. Remember that being a victim of robbery is not your fault and that you can recover from this traumatic experience.

  FAQs

  What should I do if I witness a robbery?

  If you witness a robbery, you should try to stay calm and safe. Do not intervene or confront the robber, as this may put you or others in danger. Try to memorize the robber’s appearance, clothing, weapon, vehicle, or direction of escape. Call 911 as soon as possible and provide as much information as you can. Wait for the police to arrive and cooperate with their investigation.

  What are the rights of robbery victims?

  The rights of robbery victims may vary by state or jurisdiction, but generally they include the right to:

  • Be treated with dignity and respect
  • Be informed of their case status and proceedings
  • Be present and heard at court hearings
  • Be protected from the offender
  • Receive restitution or compensation
  • Receive assistance and support

  How can I help a friend or family member who is a victim of robbery?

  If a friend or family member is a victim of robbery, you can help them by:

  • Listening to them and validating their feelings
  • Offering them practical and emotional support
  • Encouraging them to seek professional help if needed
  • Respecting their choices and privacy
  • Avoiding blaming or judging them
  • Being patient and understanding

  How can I cope with the fear of crime after being robbed?

  If you are afraid of crime after being robbed, you can cope by:

  • Taking steps to enhance your personal safety and security
  • Avoiding places or situations that trigger your fear or anxiety
  • Seeking counseling or therapy to address your trauma
  • Joining a support group or network with other survivors
  • Focusing on positive aspects of your life
  • Seeking help from friends, family, a member of the clergy, a counselor, or a victim assistance professional.

  Where can I find more information about robbery?

  You can find more information about robbery from the following sources:

  • The Bureau of Justice Statistics’ website, which provides data and reports on crime and justice topics.
  • The National Crime Prevention Council’s website, which provides tips and resources on how to prevent crime and be safe.
  • The National Criminal Justice Reference Service’s website, which provides publications and resources on crime, victimization, and justice issues.

  I hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for reading and stay safe!

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