A simple shoplift becomes a _________ when more force is used.

• A. Larceny
• B. Robbery
• C. Burglary
• D. Fraud

Answer: (B)

The deciding idea is that the use of force or intimidation to take property from a person (or in their immediate presence) elevates theft into robbery. A simple shoplift is typically larceny—the property is taken without force against a person. When more force is used to obtain the property, the act becomes robbery because force or fear is now part of how the property is gained. Burglary involves unlawfully entering a building to commit a crime, not the force used to take from a person, and fraud relies on deception rather than force. So adding force to a shoplift makes it robbery.