Armed robbery is a theft that uses force, intimidation or violence to seize someone else’s property. This type of crime typically involves a weapon or the replica of a weapon (such as a cap gun) Charges of armed robbery should always be taken very seriously since the consequences of a conviction are steep.
Because many armed robberies are violent in nature, prosecutors tend to be aggressive in their attempts to ensure convictions in these cases. If you have been accused of armed robbery, you should find an aggressive criminal defense attorney who will aggressively defend your rights in court and/or attempt to negotiate a reasonable plea bargain.
About Armed Robbery
An armed robbery charge may be filed along with charges of illegal possession of a firearm or assault with a deadly weapon charge. Even if the perpetrator threatened the use of a weapon but did not have a gun or knife in his or her possession, additional charges can still be pursued.
In general, armed robbery cases fall into one of three categories:
- Stranger stick-up cases (such as a mugging)
- Store or bank robberies where someone displays or mentions having a weapon
- Robbery in a home, which may referred to as “armed home invasion”
Most armed robbery cases are based on identification by witnesses or video surveillance. Therefore, a successful motion to suppress identification may leave the state with no solid case and the prosecutor would be forded to drop the charges.
A skilled defense attorney may also get the weapon evidence suppressed in the alleged crime. If the local police fail to follow certain state and federal protocols during the criminal investigation, the evidence they find may be excluded.
Armed Robbery Conviction
The penalties for an armed robbery conviction are severe and will depend on factors such as prior convictions, probation status, and whether anyone was injured or killed during the robbery. Penalties may include:
- A lengthy prison sentence
- Probation or parole
- Restitution to the victims
If you or someone you love is facing armed robbery charges, you need a qualified defense attorney. To find one in your area, please click here.