Though used interchangeably colloquially, robbery and burglary are not the same crime. There are some key differences you need to understand.

In Ohio, burglary is considered an unauthorized entry into a building or structure with the intention of committing a crime inside. In order to be convicted of burglary, both parts of the definition must be proved true beyond a reasonable doubt. For example, entering a building without the proven intent of committing a crime is not considered burglary. However, in this case, a different charge, such as trespassing, could be the cause of conviction.

A robbery involves taking personal property from another person against his or her will using, or threatening to use, physical force. If you steal candy from a convenience store but don’t take it from a person, you did not rob the store. If you point a gun at someone’s head and take his or her money, you robbed that person.

Both robbery and burglary convictions can have serious, long-lasting effects. For example, robbery is punishable as a felony of the second degree if the alleged offended uses or threatens the immediate use of force on another person. This offense can put you in prison for up to eight years and carry a fine of $10,000.

For more information on theft crimes, please visit http://www.criminalattorneycolumbus.com/CriminalDefense/TheftCrimes.aspx.