Robbery vs. Burglary in Indiana

People may use “robbery” and “burglary” interchangeably in everyday life, but in criminal law the two are very distinct. So, what’s the difference?

Robbery

In Indiana, robbery is as an offense against a person. If a person knowingly or intentionally takes property from another person (or from the presence of another person) by using or threatening the use of force on any person or by putting any person in fear, they commit a robbery and a Level 5 felony. If the robbery is committed while armed with a deadly weapon or the crime results in bodily injury, the offense is a Level 3 felony. If the robbery results in serious bodily injury, the offense is a Level 2 felony.

Burglary

Unlike robbery, burglary is an offense against property. A person who breaks and enters a building or structure of another person, with intent to commit a felony or theft in that building or structure, commits burglary and a Level 5 felony. If the building or structure being broken into is a dwelling, a Level 4 felony is committed. If the burglary results in bodily injury, a Level 3 felony is committed. If the offense is committed while the burglar is armed with a deadly weapon, the burglary is a Level 2 felony. The burglary is also a Level 2 felony if it results in serious bodily injury. Finally, if the building being broken into is a dwelling and the burglary results in serious bodily injury, a Level 1 felony is committed.

An example of a robbery is when someone steals someone’s purse while walking by them on the street. That is robbery, and not burglary, because the offender took property directly from a person by force and the offender did not break into the person’s home to steal the purse.

As you can see, robbery and burglary are distinct offenses. If you are charged with robbery, burglary, or any other criminal offense, contact McNeelyLaw today. Call us at 317-825-5110 to talk to an experienced criminal law attorney who can help you navigate through the complexities of your case.

This McNeelyLaw LLP publication should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion of any specific facts or circumstances. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult your own lawyer on any specific legal questions you may have concerning your situation.