What is the main difference between robbery and theft?

The main distinction between robbery and theft lies in the element of confrontation, which is why the choice that indicates robbery involves direct confrontation is the most accurate. In a robbery, the perpetrator typically uses or threatens force to take property from an individual. This may include physical violence or the threat of violence directed at the victim, creating a sense of immediacy and fear. This direct confrontation is a key factor that elevates robbery to a more serious crime compared to theft.

Theft, on the other hand, usually involves the unlawful taking of property without the use of force or intimidation, meaning it can occur without the victim being present or aware at the time. The absence of any direct confrontation or threat to a person differentiates theft from robbery. Understanding this difference is crucial for legal classifications and determining the appropriate charges in criminal cases.