What is armed robbery characterized by?

Armed robbery is specifically characterized by the use or threatened use of a dangerous weapon, such as a firearm, during the commission of the crime. This definition emphasizes that not only is there an element of theft involved, but that the offender has a weapon, which adds a significant level of intimidation and danger to the encounter. The presence of a dangerous weapon or firearm elevates the seriousness of the crime and increases the potential for violence, both against victims and law enforcement, making it a more severe offense than robbery that does not involve weapons.

The other options fail to capture the essence of armed robbery. For instance, stealing without a weapon does not meet the criteria of being "armed," while robbery involving deception only does not include the physical element of a weapon, thus not constituting armed robbery. Similarly, a threat of robbery in a non-violent manner would not satisfy the requirements of armed robbery, as it lacks the critical factor of an actual or implied weapon.