Unarmed Robbery in Kalamazoo: What You Need to Know

Unarmed robbery refers to a theft or larceny that occurs without the use of a weapon. While not as serious as armed robbery, unarmed robbery charges still carry significant penalties in Kalamazoo that could result in years behind bars. This article provides an overview of unarmed robbery laws in Kalamazoo, typical penalties, and defense strategies that a local criminal defense attorney can use to fight the charges.

Unarmed Robbery Laws in Kalamazoo

Under Michigan law, unarmed robbery and larceny generally mean the same thing. They involve taking money or property without permission with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. An unarmed robbery conviction can result in up to 15 years in prison depending on the circumstances.

Factors that can increase the penalty include:

• Use of violence or threats during the robbery
• Attempting to harm the victim
• Prior criminal record

Prosecutors may also charge accomplices in an unarmed robbery with aiding and abetting. This carries the same potential prison sentence as if they personally committed the robbery.

Types of Unarmed Robbery

There are many scenarios that can lead to an unarmed robbery charge in Kalamazoo, such as:

• Shoplifting: Also called retail fraud, this involves taking merchandise from a store without paying. Shoplifting over $200 in value becomes a felony. Forcefully resisting loss prevention officers can also trigger an unarmed robbery charge.
• Home Invasion: Entering a home illegally with intent to steal can lead to a first-degree home invasion charge. This is a felony with up to 20 years imprisonment even without a weapon.
• Bank or Vault Robbery: Using threats, intimidation, or kidnapping to force bank employees to open a vault or safe is considered bank robbery. This felony can result in up to life in prison.
• Theft from a Building: This includes stealing money or property from any building such as a home, office, warehouse or church. Harsh penalties apply.

Penalties for Unarmed Robbery

An unarmed robbery conviction subjects offenders to both jail time and financial penalties. The extent depends on exactly what happened and the person’s prior record.

Potential penalties for a first offense include:

• Up to 15 years in prison
• Fines up to $10,000
• Probation

Penalties increase dramatically for repeat offenders or if violence was used. Home invasion, for example, allows up to 20 years imprisonment even on a first offense.

Other consequences of an unarmed robbery conviction include:

• Permanent criminal record
• Difficulty finding employment
• Loss of civil liberties
• Deportation for non-citizens

Fighting Unarmed Robbery Charges

The severity of potential penalties makes it critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney if facing unarmed robbery accusations in Kalamazoo. A lawyer can thoroughly analyze the prosecution’s case and identify any constitutional, procedural or factual weaknesses.

Common defense strategies in unarmed robbery cases include:

• Lack of criminal intent: If the accused did not realize they were committing a crime or were coerced, this could negate intent.
• Misidentification: Eyewitness misidentification is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. An attorney can challenge questionable ID procedures.
• Illegal search and seizure: Evidence from unconstitutional searches can be inadmissible. This is common in shoplifting cases.
• Entrapment: Undercover police operations that go too far can constitute improper entrapment.
• Self-defense: Use of force to escape perceived threat of harm may justify otherwise illegal acts.
• Negotiating lesser charges: Prosecutors often reduce charges in exchange for a guilty plea. An attorney can secure a favorable deal.

No matter the circumstances, anyone facing unarmed robbery accusations in Kalamazoo needs an aggressive defense lawyer in their corner. The legal team at Grabel & Associates and Hills at Law have the experience to build a strong defense against these life-altering charges. Through meticulous investigation and assertive negotiation tactics, they have achieved many extremely favorable outcomes for clients accused of robbery, theft and related offenses.