Robbery conviction correct although the proceeds were destroyed

Several individuals conspired to lure a young boy into a trap, commit violence against him and destroy his mobile phone, which was taken.

The question before the Supreme Court was whether it was correct to convict for robbery, even though the sole intention was to destroy the mobile phone and not to obtain financial gain.

The Supreme Court – in agreement with the Court of Appeal – concluded that the act must be regarded as robbery. The provision on robbery must be interpreted to mean that the requirement of gain is met when the perpetrator understands – has intent – that by means of violence or threats he or she acquires control over an object of economic value. The fact that the purpose is to destroy the object is irrelevant.

The judgment provides guidance on the interpretation of section 327 of the Penal Code concerning robbery.

Read the judgment from the Supreme Court (Norwegian only) (PDF)

Area of law: Criminal law, section 327 of the Penal Code

Key paragraphs: 33, 35, 36, 42

Justices: Bull, Bergsjø, Sæther, Stenvik, Steen