Armed Robbery Attorneys in Colorado Springs
Robbery is considered a violent crime by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. However, it is both a property crime and a crime of violence.
In Colorado, robbery is defined as an individual knowingly taking something of value from another while using threats, force, or intimidation. If the accused is armed with a deadly weapon and has the intention of killing, maiming, or wounding the person they’re threatening, the crime is considered “armed” or “aggravated” robbery.
These are very serious charges with severe consequences, so it is no surprise that clients charged with these crimes are often extremely stressed and concerned about their future. We can help you navigate the legal process and build the strongest case possible to achieve the best outcome.
What is Considered Armed Robbery in Colorado?
Perception plays a role in whether or not a robbery is classified as an “armed” robbery. There must be a perception that a deadly weapon was used in the crime or that the offender advertises it as deadly.
Furthermore, if the accused strikes or wounds another individual with a deadly weapon or uses threats, intimidation, or force with a deadly weapon, this can also be construed as armed robbery.
Finally, if any accomplice does any of the above, all of the alleged offenders—whether they directly acted in this manner or not—can be considered to have taken part in an armed robbery. This crime carries harsh consequences and is one that is aggressively pursued by Colorado prosecutors. It’s important to have good representation because the penalties for aggravated robbery can be life-altering.
What are the Penalties for Aggravated Robbery?
Because aggravated robbery is considered to be a violent crime, the penalties reflect the seriousness of the charge. In addition to being a Class 3 felony, armed robbery is considered an “extraordinary risk crime.”
The penalties for aggravated robbery are as following:
- At least 4 years in prison and a $3,000 fine
- A maximum of 16 years in prison and a $750,000 fine
These penalties can also be affected by exceptional circumstances, as follows:
- At least 2 years in prison
- A maximum sentence of 32 years in prison
- Mandatory parole for 5 years
The court will order the penalties based on the circumstances of the case and may also impose other requirements on the convicted. These include rehabilitation programs, community service, probation, anger management counseling, and psychological evaluation.
Colorado Laws Regarding Weapons Used in a Robbery
There are numerous situations in which a weapon can be used in a robbery that might lead to a charge of aggravated robbery. Under the law, these include:
- The accused intended to use a dangerous weapon in their possession to injure or kill the victim of the robbery or anyone else.
- The accused injures someone with a weapon
- The accused threatened or intimidated someone with a weapon
- The accused had an associate or accomplice who possessed a weapon with the intent to kill or injure others. This includes threatening or intimidating the victim(s) with the weapon
- The accused had an item that reasonably resembles a dangerous weapon or announced that they had such a weapon. Even pretending to have such a weapon to kill or injure others falls under this category
These charges are a Class 3 felony in the state of Colorado. This means that if you are convicted, you’ll be subjected to all of the standard penalties that apply to this class of felony.
However, it’s possible that additional penalties, like more prison time, may be added to your sentence since armed robbery is an extraordinary risk crime. An armed robbery puts people’s lives and health at risk, and Colorado values preserving life to the highest degree.
Colorado Springs Armed Robbery Defense Lawyer
The Colorado legislature has made it possible for those who commit such crimes to receive harsher than standard penalties because of the extraordinary risk.
For this reason, it is vital to contact an experienced, reputable attorney to build a strong defense. If you need a criminal attorney for armed robbery or other violent crimes in Colorado Springs, contact Anaya & Chadderdon, P.C. as soon as possible.