Under New York State Law, robbery is defined as the forcible stealing of another's property. Larceny becomes robbery when an individual uses or threatens the use of physical force on another for the purpose of either compelling the property owner to hand over the property or preventing any resistance to the taking of the property. Premeditation is not required in order for an individual to be charged with robbery.
Robbery in the third degree - Class D felony
Like burglary charges, there are three primary classifications of robbery charges. Robbery in the third degree is committed when an individual forcibly steals the property of another. Third degree robbery is considered a Class D felony and if convicted you could be facing up to 7 years in prison.
Robbery in the second degree - Class C felony
Robbery in the second degree is committed when an individual forcibly steals property with the aid of another person at the scene of the crime. It is also considered second degree robbery when during the commission of the robbery, or during the immediate flight from the crime scene, the defendant displays or brandishes a weapon or causes some form of physical injury to a non-participant of the crime. If the stolen property is a motor vehicle, the defendant could also be looking at second degree robbery. This type of offense is considered a Class C felony and if convicted could mean up to 15 years in prison.
Robbery in the first degree - Class B felony
Robbery in the first degree is committed when an individual illegally and forcibly steals property or money from another and when, during the commission of the crime or immediate flight from the crime scene, the defendant a) causes serious physical injury to a non-participant in the crime, b) is armed with a deadly weapon, c) uses or threatens the use of a dangerous instrument or d) displays what appears to be a pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, machine gun or other firearm, whether or not the firearm was loaded. This type of offense is a Class B felony and if convicted could mean up to 25 years in state prison.
If you or a loved one have been charged with or arrested for any degree of burglary, you are facing felony charges and need a Rockland County criminal lawyer who will aggressively fight for you. Having been in practice for over 15 years, I have the successful track record you want defending you.
The Law Office of William J. Reddy provides criminal defense for clients facing robbery charges in Rockland County, NYC, Hudson Valley and New York State. Whether you have been arrested for, or officially charged with, robbery I urge you to seek legal representation from my firm right away. As a former Senior Assistant District Attorney I understand all aspects of criminal defense cases. This allows me to fully evaluate and review each client case in order to determine the most productive legal avenues to pursue for your defense.
If you are facing robbery charges, do not delay. Contact a Rockland robbery attorneyat my firm today so I can evaluate your case and advise you of your legal rights and options.