Most people use the terms burglary, robbery, and theft interchangeably, but the truth is that they’re
quite different.
Each of these three categories is unique, however, they do have one thing in common: each deals
with the unauthorized taking of someone’s personal property by another person (stealing, in other
words). Other than this one similarity, these crimes don’t have much else in common.
Let’s take a look at the difference between the three.
Theft or Larceny
Theft or larceny is the most basic of the three crimes we’re discussing today. A theft is the
unauthorized taking of someone’s property with the intent to deprive the person of that property
forever.
For most states, the common law crime of larceny fits in the same general category as “theft”
crime. However, other states see larceny as its own criminal offense that occurs when an
individual takes and carries away another’s personal property without consent and with the
intention of permanently depriving the owner of that property.
An example of theft would be someone stealing your wallet after you set it down on a table and
walk away.
Robbery
By now, you’re probably asking yourself what robbery is if stealing something is considered
theft. Well, let’s get into that.
Robbery is basically theft accomplished by the use of fear or physical force.
Remember our theft example? Robbery would be if someone demanded you turn over your
wallet by threatening you or violently tearing it from your hands. That’s robbery.
Burglary
By now, you probably have a clearer idea of what burglary is. Often equated with theft,
burglary doesn’t require that a theft take place. It doesn’t require the intention of theft either.
A person commits burglary when they unlawfully enter a structure (like a home or a business)
and intend to commit a crime inside.
Most burglaries involve some form of theft, but the crime intended can be any crime, which
includes theft, murder, or making your own edibles.
You can be charged with burglary regardless of whether or not the intended crime was
committed on the property. Did you know that unlawful entry doesn’t require breaking and
entering? Most often this is the case, but the entry just has to be “unlawful.” If you trespass
through an unlocked door, you’re still in committing an unlawful entry.
If you’re facing criminal theft, robbery, or burglary charges, you should speak with a criminal
defense attorney as soon as possible. This is the best way to protect your rights as you enter
the criminal justice system.
Are you looking for criminal charge representation and are in the Cedar Rapids area? Speak
to experienced attorney Cory Goldensoph P.C. today. Cory offers a free case evaluation that
will help shed light on your options and help you determine if he’s the right fit for your case.
You shouldn’t have to go to trial alone. Cory is experienced in criminal, drug crime, and DUI
law, so don’t hesitate to reach out to him today.