Robbery

In the State of Mississippi, a robbery conviction can get you thrown into prison. Robbery is the forceful theft of somebody’s property in his or her presence. This can involve a weapon, no weapon or even just the implication of a weapon. Each case is different, and there are many different variables to consider in any case involving a robbery charge. Whether you’re facing a charge of robbery or armed robbery with additional felony charges, it’s important to get in touch with a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest.

Robbery or Burglary?

It’s important to understand the differences between burglary and robbery, because many people get the two charges confused. Often times, we hear that people describe what was actually a burglary as a robbery. It’s critical to note that a burglary is basically a crime against a property, and a robbery is a crime against a person. Both charges involve theft, but the victim is present during a robbery. If a person’s valuables are stolen from the home while that person is at work, that’s a burglary. If a person is held up at gunpoint for his or her jewelry and wallet, that’s a robbery. In most cases, robbery charges carry much more serious penalties, due to the potential harm to the victims involved.

Armed Robbery

When we think of robberies, we most often think of armed robberies. Whether weapons are present or implied, an armed robbery involves a threat against the safety of the potential victim. A variety of weapons can be considered ‘deadly’ when describing the elements of an armed robbery crime. These weapons can be guns, knives, rifles, broken bottles, tire irons and just about anything else that can be used to harm somebody. In fact, even just the implication of a weapon is enough to get you charged with armed robbery. This is the case we hear about when somebody uses a suspicious looking bulge in a paper bag or jacket to induce somebody into giving up money or valuables. Armed robbery charges can arise from actual weapons or implied weapons.

Bank Robbery

Bank robberies are also one of the more common types of robberies we think about. These usually result in various serious felony charges. If you’re being charged with robbing a bank, you need immediate criminal defense representation. It doesn’t matter if you were the person with the gun, the lookout or the driver. You could be facing decades behind bars, if convicted. Where banks are involved, there are special laws and regulations in place, and charges can quickly add up. Additionally, with the threat to bank customers and the general public, it’s possible to face penalties up to life in prison, if convicted.

Additional Charges

A variety of additional charges can be associated with robbery. If somebody was injured or killed, you can be looking at felony murder or manslaughter. Depending upon what types of weapons were used, you could also be facing additional charges. The value of the items stolen can also be taken into account. It doesn’t take long for what might have initially been a charge of simple robbery to quickly grow into a laundry list of misdemeanor and felony crimes. No matter how many charges you’re facing, the sooner you speak with a criminal defense attorney about your case, the better chance you have at a favorable outcome.