Robbery occurs when a person takes the property of another without their consent. Robbery is a serious crime and carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The crime is typically committed by a single offender but in some cases, a group may be responsible.
The majority of robberies occur in business establishments, especially supermarkets, drugstores, jewelry stores, gas stations, all-night restaurants or delicatessens. Usually, the offender is a lone person, but it is not uncommon for thieves to enter a delivery truck or warehouse and force people to open safes or cash rooms. Robbery of this type can be more damaging to businesses than armed robbery because it often involves large amounts of cash and valuables.
People should pay attention to their instincts and trust their intuition. Certain physical cues, such as a nervous or uneasy appearance or body language, can be indicators of possible harmful intent. Verbal cues, such as threats or expressions of revenge, are also significant and should be taken seriously.
Personal safety should be the number one priority when out at night. When walking alone, try to take a route that avoids alleyways and walk across parks or common areas only when it is well lit. When using public transportation at night, try to use well lighted stops and choose those that have lots of other people waiting for a bus or taxi. If you must travel alone at night, carry a second wallet with only $1.00 bills and old credit cards. This way, if you are confronted at knife or gunpoint, you can give the suspect this second wallet and concentrate on giving police a good physical description of the suspect(s).
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