A robbery, shooting, and a few car crashes recently resulted in a 15-block crime scene in North Miami-Dade. The commotion happened at a trailer park near Biscayne Boulevard and Northeast 136th Street. The shooting was retaliation for a robbery that happened a few days earlier, when a 14-year-old girl was robbed of her gold chain. Local residents reported that the same people who robbed the girl tried to commit another robbery. The unsuccessful robbery escalated into a shooting and the pair took off. The suspects were fleeing north on Biscayne Boulevard when their black Lexus collided with an SUV. North Miami Beach law enforcement caught the pair. The incident is under investigation, however, and the suspects may both face robbery charges. While all robberies may not end in a car crash and a large crime scene, it is important that those facing robbery charges understand the crime and what a conviction could mean for their futures.
What is Robbery?
Robbery crimes include a wide vary of criminal actions ranging from the snatching of a purse from an unaware victim to the armed entry of a home with intent to take property by force. Under Florida law robbery occurs when an accused takes money or other property from someone else with the intent to deprive that person, temporarily or permanently, of his or her property, and the accused uses force, violence, or assault while committing the crime. Robberies are punishable as felonies under the law. Sentences range from five years to life in prison, depending on the different factors that may enhance the sentence.
Enhancing Sentences Firearms and Deadly Weapons
When looking at punishment for robbery crimes, it is important to keep in mind that the punishment for robbery may depend on whether the accused was carrying a firearm, deadly weapon, or other weapon. The presence of a firearm, deadly weapon, or other weapon will mean that a prosecutor has the option of requesting an enhanced penalty. The punishments for robbery include:
- First Degree Felony Robbery: If during the course of committing the crime the accused carried a weapon, then they may face a charge first degree felony punishable with up to thirty years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Strong Arm Robbery or Second Degree Felony Robbery: If while committing the robbery the accused was not carrying a firearm, deadly weapon, or other type of weapon, then they may face a second degree felony charge punishable with up to fifteen years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Let an Attorney Help With Robbery Charges
Robbery charges are serious and an accusation can lead to serious impact on one’s life. These accusation could lead to even more serious consequences if a prosecutor believes that he or she has a basis for enhancing the sentence. If you have been accused of robbery, contact Moses & Rooth. We can help you understand potential sentence enhancements and develop the best strategy for defending you in court. Please contact us today at 407-377-0150 to schedule an initial consultation.