What are the differences between burglary, robbery and theft?

The three most common types of property crimes in North Carolina are burglary, robbery, and theft. While these offenses are often confused and lumped together, they have differences. If you are charged with one of these crimes, you should understand what it means and how all three differ.

What is burglary?

Burglary is a type of crime that doesn’t have to involve property actually being taken. It is committed when a person unlawfully breaks into a property such as a home with the intention of committing a second crime while inside. For example, someone might enter another person’s house and plan to steal jewelry from a jewelry box. However, it’s possible to be arrested, charged, and even convicted of burglary even if a person breaks into a property and doesn’t carry out the crime once inside.

What is robbery?

Robbery is a type of theft crime that involves property. It is a criminal offense that is committed when a person takes property from another person without their consent. Robbery is also done while using force or at least a threat of force. If the victim is scared and believes their safety is in imminent danger, even if they don’t suffer an actual injury, the perpetrator can be charged with the crime.

What is theft?

Theft is also a property crime but differs from burglary and robbery. A person can commit this crime by taking property that belongs to someone else with the intention of depriving the owner of it. There are two categories of this crime as well: petty theft and grand theft. Petty theft involves property that is worth under $950 while grand theft involves property worth more than $950. The former is classified as a misdemeanor while the latter is considered a felony.

Accusations of committing a property crime should be taken seriously. Protecting your rights is essential if you face any of these charges.