Robbery is a very serious criminal offense in Monroe because it involves harming another person. There are many different types of robbery outlined under Louisiana law, but all of them are classified as felonies. A felony conviction is the worst kind you could have on your criminal record and so, it is important to fight back against these charges. Below, our Monroe felony defense lawyer outlines the different types of robbery in the state, and the penalties associated with them.
Simple Robbery
Simple robbery occurs when one person uses intimidation or force on another person to steal their property. This offense does not entail the use of a weapon, or the threat of the use of a weapon but, it is still a very serious crime. Under the law, simple robbery is punishable by up to seven years, a maximum $3,000 fine, or both.
First Degree Robbery
The offense of first degree robbery involves using intimidation or threats to steal another person’s property while making them believe there is a weapon involved. For example, a person may tell a store clerk that they have a gun in their jacket and tell them to empty the cash register. This is considered first degree robbery, even if a weapon was not used and even if the offender did not have a weapon on them. A conviction for first degree robbery can result in 3 to 40 years in prison without the possibility of probation, parole, or sentence suspension.
Second Degree Robbery
Second degree robbery is very serious because it involves stealing another person’s property while inflicting serious bodily harm on the victim. The prison sentences for those convicted range between 3 and 40 years as with first degree robbery. However, the sentence will largely depend on the nature and severity of the injury caused and other facts of the case.
Armed Robbery
Armed robbery is considered the most serious of these charges because it involves the use of a dangerous weapon when using intimidation or force to steal another person’s property. A conviction for armed robbery carries a sentence that ranges from 10 to 99 years in prison. Those sentenced are also not eligible for probation, parole, or suspension of their sentence. The prison sentences for armed robbery are harsh, but they are even more severe if the dangerous weapon used was a firearm. In these cases, the prison sentence is increased by five years.
Call Our Felony Defense Lawyer in Monroe for a Free Consultation
Facing robbery charges is very scary and the possible penalties will depend on the extent and severity of the alleged crime. At Whiddon Criminal Defense, our Monroe felony defense lawyer knows that anyone charged deserves to have their rights protected, and has a long track record of helping people beat their charges. We can put that experience to work for you, too. If you or someone you love has been charged, call us now at 318-594-3592 or reach out to us online to schedule a free review of your case.