How is "robbery" defined in Georgia?

Robbery in Georgia is defined specifically as taking property from another person by using threat or physical force. This definition emphasizes the direct interaction between the robber and the victim, highlighting the element of intimidation or force necessary to establish the crime. The act must involve the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property, and it is characterized by the immediate threat to the victim’s safety.

The focus on using threat or physical force distinguishes robbery from other property crimes. For instance, stealing from a building typically pertains to burglary, which involves entering a structure unlawfully with intent to commit a crime inside, but does not necessarily involve direct confrontation or threat to a person. Deceiving someone to gain property refers to fraud or theft by deception, which also does not involve force or intimidation. Using force to obtain goods from a store could be interpreted as shoplifting or theft if it does not involve a direct confrontation with a person.

Therefore, identifying robbery as the act of taking property through threat or force captures the essential elements of the crime as defined in Georgia law.