Violent robbery in Georgia — Article 179
Violent robbery under Article 179 is an attack to unlawfully take someone else's movable property, committed with violence dangerous to life or health or the threat of such violence. It is one of the most serious property crimes.
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What is the penalty
| When | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Basic offence | Imprisonment from 5 to 7 years |
| Breaking into premises or storage; as a group; against a vehicle | Imprisonment from 6 to 9 years |
| Repeatedly; by breaking into a home; to take property on a large scale | Imprisonment from 8 to 12 years |
| By an organised group; by a person convicted twice or more | Imprisonment from 11 to 15 years |
Penalties follow the current text of the Criminal Code of Georgia. In a specific case the outcome depends on the circumstances, compensation of damage, a plea agreement and other factors.
What matters for the defence
- Whether the violence or threat was really dangerous — if not, the charge may be reduced to robbery
- The purpose of the attack — was it to take property
- The forensic medical report
- Reliability of identification and witness statements
If you are accused or arrested
- Use your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer — from the first contact with the investigating authority
- Don't sign any document you don't understand
- You must be charged within 48 hours of arrest, and within the next 24 hours a court decides on a preventive measure
- Decide on compensating the damage or settling with the victim together with your lawyer
If you are a victim
- Call 112 or go to the police or the prosecutor's office
- Keep the evidence: photos, video, messages, receipts, witnesses' contacts
- Ask for victim status — it gives you rights in the case, for example to be informed about its progress
- You can claim compensation for the damage — a lawyer will help
Questions & answers
What is the penalty for violent robbery?
For the basic offence — 5 to 7 years in prison; with aggravating circumstances — up to 15 years.
Can the charge be reduced to robbery?
Yes, if it is established that the violence or threat was not dangerous to life or health. That is why this question is central to the defence.
Can a fine be imposed?
No. Every part of Article 179 provides only for imprisonment.
Legal basis
Official texts (in Georgian) — Legislative Herald of Georgia, matsne.gov.ge.
Related practice area: Property crimes
Crimes and penalties
Theft
Article 177Secretly taking someone else's property. Penalties range from a fine to 10 years, depending on the damage and circumstances.Robbery (open theft)
Article 178Openly taking someone else's property. Penalties range from a fine to 11 years, depending on the damage, violence and other factors.Extortion
Article 181Demanding money or property under threat of violence, damage or spreading compromising information. Up to 9 years.Embezzlement
Article 182Unlawfully keeping or spending property or money you were entrusted with — often at work. Up to 11 years.Damage to property
Article 187Damaging or destroying someone else's property causing significant damage. Penalties from a fine to 12 years.Bodily harm
Article 117, 118, 120Intentional minor, less serious and serious bodily harm — penalties from a fine to 14 years.Hooliganism
Article 239A gross breach of public order with violence or the threat of violence. Penalties from a fine to 7 years.Need legal advice? Talk to an attorney today.
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