What Is The Difference Between Robbery And Burglary In Ouachita Parish?

People often think that robbery and burglary are the same offense, but they are two very different crimes in Ouachita Parish, and throughout Louisiana. Not only are the two offenses different, but there are also different types of both burglary and robbery. Likewise, there are also different penalties depending on the charge a person faces, but they are all serious. If you have been charged or believe you are under investigation, our Ouachita Parish felony defense lawyer can help you understand the charges you are facing and prepare a solid defense that will help you keep your freedom.

What is Burglary in Ouachita Parish?

Contrary to what many people think, burglary is not the same thing as breaking and entering. When a person commits burglary, they illegally enter another person’s property without their permission, and with the intent of committing a felony. The felony does not have to be carried out in order for burglary charges to apply. A person only has to have the intent to commit a felony or theft, even if they were not able to carry out the crime.

Aggravated burglary occurs when a person enters someone else’s property with the intent to commit a felony, and when there are aggravating factors involved. There are a number of aggravating factors that can upgrade a simple burglary charge to aggravated burglary. These include when:

• A person is armed with a dangerous weapon when they enter the property,
• A person ams themselves with a dangerous weapon after illegally entering someone else’s property, or
• A person commits battery upon a person when entering a property, or while entering or exiting a property

Burglary often occurs when there are no witnesses, leaving room for false allegations or testimony. An Ouachita Parish felony defense lawyer can prove false accusations so you can beat your charges.

What is Robbery in Ouachita Parish?

Robbery in Ouachita Parish focuses more on the theft of property, and there is a greater intention of harming another person in order to steal their property. Simple robbery involves using force or threats, but not a weapon, in order to take another person’s property. Armed robbery occurs when a person brandishes a weapon while using force or threats to take something of value from another person.

On the other hand, first-degree robbery involves using force or threats to steal from another person while making them believe the offender has a weapon. Second degree robbery occurs when a person intentionally inflicts harm on someone else while taking something of value from them.

Call Our Felony Defense Lawyer in Ouachita Parish for a Free Consultation

While there are differences between robbery and burglary, they are both very serious criminal offenses in Louisiana. At Whiddon Criminal Defense, our Ouachita Parish felony defense lawyer will fight for your rights while giving you the best chance of retaining your freedom. Call us now at 318-594-3592 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more.