Conn. Gen. Stat. 53a-136 – Robbery in the third degree

Connecticut General Statutes 53a-136 explained for non lawyers

1. What the law prohibits

You commit robbery in the third degree when you use force or threaten to use immediate force against another person while stealing their property. This is different from simple theft because it involves using physical force or threats of force against the victim. Examples include pushing someone and taking their purse, threatening to hit someone unless they give you money, or grabbing property from someone’s hands.

2. What the penalties are if someone is convicted

• This is a Class D felony.
• Punishable by:
  • Up to 5 years in prison
  • Up to $5,000 in fines
  • Plus possible probation and restitution

3. What the state has to prove to convict someone (Elements of the offense)

To secure a conviction, the state must prove all of the following beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. The defendant committed larceny (stole property belonging to another person)
2. The defendant used force against the victim or threatened immediate use of force
3. The force or threat was used in the course of committing the larceny
4. The defendant intended to prevent or overcome resistance to the taking of the property

Note: Robbery is considered more serious than theft because it involves violence or threats against a person. Even grabbing something from someone’s hands can be considered robbery if force is used.

For the actual statute, you can visit Justia which has the actual law on its website.

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