Which element is unique to robbery?

• A. The taking of property from a person through force, intimidation, or threats to facilitate the theft.
• B. The unlawful taking of property with intent to deprive the owner.
• C. The use of deception to obtain property.
• D. The unauthorized possession of stolen property.

Answer: (A)

The element being tested is what makes robbery a distinct crime: taking property from a person through force, intimidation, or threats. This direct confrontation with the victim sets robbery apart from other theft offenses. The unlawful taking with intent to deprive (theft/larceny) can occur without any force or fear directed at the victim and doesn’t have to involve taking from a person in their presence. Using deception to obtain property describes fraud or false pretenses, which relies on misrepresentation rather than force or intimidation. Possessing stolen property is a separate crime (handling or receiving stolen goods) that occurs after the theft, not during the act of taking from someone. Therefore, the unique element of robbery is the use of force, intimidation, or threats in taking property from a person.