Understanding the law is very important, especially when it pertains to serious crimes such as robbery. In Oklahoma, the legal system treats robbery as a serious crime. It becomes even more critical when those charges escalate to a felony.
Being aware of the conditions that cause this escalation can provide you with valuable insights and help you navigate situations that might lead to severe legal consequences.
The nature of the act
Robbery charges can escalate to a felony based on the nature of the act. If you engage in a robbery with a dangerous weapon or simulate a weapon, Oklahoma law categorizes it as a felony.
Physical harm
If you instill fear in a person by threatening them with immediate bodily harm during the robbery or causing bodily harm to them when robbing a person, it is a factor that can elevate the robbery charges to a felony.
Second and subsequent robberies
Oklahoma law maintains that the second offense, and any that follow, regardless of the absence of harm or use of a weapon, is grounds for a felony charge.
Robbery performed by two or more people
If you commit a robbery in conjunction with one or more individuals, the law considers it a felony. Oklahoma law stipulates that the act of group robbery is a more severe crime than an individual robbery, warranting a felony charge.
It is important to understand these factors not just so you can avoid them, but also to be knowledgeable about the legal repercussions of such acts. Knowledge of the law can be empowering.