> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://blackoutrp.gitbook.io/blackoutrp-rules/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://blackoutrp.gitbook.io/blackoutrp-rules/theft-robbery-and-heist-rules.md).

# Theft, Robbery, & Heist Rules

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### 🏦 Heist & Robbery Rules

To ensure fairness, balance, and immersive roleplay, all players must follow these rules when participating in **heists, robberies, and high-stakes criminal activities**.

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#### ⏳ Cooldown Between Heists

* There must be a **minimum of 24 minutes** between heists.
* This cooldown applies to **all players**, not just gang-affiliated ones.
* **You may not "steal" or interfere** with another group’s active heist. Doing so is **fail RP** and will result in punishment.

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#### 👥 T-Count & Hostage Rules

**🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Heist Participants**

* **Maximum of 5 active players on scene** (does **not** include hostages).
* You may have **1 additional person** designated as a:
  * **Spotter** or
  * **Outside shooter**

**👮‍♂️ Gang & Civilian Mixing**

* Gangs are allowed to recruit up to **2 civilians** to help during a heist.
* This is the **only exception** where gang/civilian mixing is permitted.

**🚫 Fake Hostages**

* Using **fake hostages is strictly prohibited**:
  * You **may not use friends or paid actors** to pose as hostages in any robbery or heist.
  * **Only real, unwilling hostages** (acquired during RP) are allowed.

**🔁 Hostage Substitution**

* Once the heist begins, **you may not bring in new hostages** at any time.

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#### 🚑 EMS/PD Hostage Rules

If you take a **PD or EMS** hostage during a heist:

1. **Only 1 PD or EMS** hostage allowed **per scene**.
2. If you take a **PD or EMS** hostage, **you may not take any other hostages**.
3. You **cannot** take a PD or EMS hostage if they are the **only one on duty**.

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#### 📢 Shooter/Spotter Disclosure

* If police ask, **you must truthfully disclose** whether or not you have an **outside shooter or spotter**.

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#### 🕒 Scene Timer

* Once police arrive at your heist location, you have **20 minutes** to complete the scene.
* After 20 minutes, **police are allowed to breach and take full action**, regardless of your progress.

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