The federal government and some states classify robbery differently. How is robbery variously classified and why? Do you think robbery is a violent or a property crime?

Discussion Items to be looked for

• Robbery is classified as a violent crime at the federal level.
• The authors, and some states, classify robbery as a property crime.
• Robbery may be classified as a violent crime because violence is the means of the unlawful taking.
• If motive is considered, then robbery is classified as property crime.
• Because of the violence associated with it, robbery is one of the most feared crimes.
• Strong-armed robbery is two times as likely to produce physical injury than armed robbery.
• About half of robbery victims require some sort of medical care.
• Unlike other crimes of interpersonal violence, robbery typically occurs between strangers.
• Robbery might seem random but typically occurs in a few "hot spots" within a city.
• Robbery is especially likely on the street or on a highway.
• Racial minorities, especially those perceived as Latino, are more likely to be victims of robbery.